Magic vs. Knicks: 3 Best Bets
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The Orlando Magic has lost three straight and is now out of the playoff and in the Play-In Tournament. Today, they face off against the New York Knicks, who are trending upwards since trading for OG Anunoby.
The Magic is still without Franz Wagner, who is joined by Gary Harris and Wendell Carter Jr. on the injury report. New York won’t play Mitchell Robinson, and Jalen Brunson is questionable.
Orlando Magic's Jonathan Isaac (1) reaches in against Oklahoma City Thunder's Chet Holmgren.
Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports
The Knicks are one of the better teams in the league in terms of shooting–tenth in three-point percentage, 13th in attempts–so Orlando will need to shut down the perimeter. With Robinson out, the Knicks will try to space the floor even more, which means Orlando can pound the paint on offense.
As Orlando tries to rise in the standings, keep it posted here for our three best bets, powered by the lines at SI Sportsbook.
The Lines
Point spread: Knicks -6.5 (-118)/Magic +6.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Knicks (-275)/Magic (+200)
Over/under: 220.5
Our Picks
Safe pick: Paolo Banchero OVER 26.5 points (-133)
Paolo Banchero has routinely scored 25 points over the last ten games, more often than not easily surpassing that line. With 26.5 points needed tonight, expect Banchero to surpass it, as the Knicks do not have the best interior defense. Yes, they have been boosted by the addition of Anunoby, but Banchero can simply overpower anyone New York throws at him.
Team pick: UNDER 220.5 (-110)
Both teams allow 111.6 points per game, tied for seventh in the league. Both teams have a below-average offense and tend to let their defense carry them to wins. Neither team is going to try to shoot the lights out today, and would much rather try to hold their opponent to a bad shooting night. Take the under.
Points pick: Goga Bitadze OVER 7.5 points (-110)
Bitadze is averaging eight points as a starter this season, taking the reigns when needed when the Magic gets in injury trouble. With Isaiah Hartenstein expected to start down low for the Magic, Bitadze should have no trouble matching his season average, which is easy money for Magic fans.
