The Orlando Magic are set to clash with the Toronto Raptors on January 21, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET at Scotiabank Arena. This matchup brings together two Eastern Conference teams heading in opposite directions as the Magic (23-21) look to snap their losing streak against the struggling Raptors (10-32).
Coming off three consecutive losses, the Magic find themselves dealing with injuries to key players. Although Paolo Banchero has returned to form after missing time earlier this season, averaging 21.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists since his return, the absence of standout players such as Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs hampers their chances. Wagner, who is still out with a torn oblique, is expected to miss more time, and Suggs remains sidelined due to a back injury. Wagner's brother, Moritz, is out for the season, adding to Orlando's woes.
Meanwhile, the Raptors have shown signs of improvement after recent home victories against the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics. Despite suffering a blowout loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, the Raptors are hoping to capitalize on their home advantage. RJ Barrett has emerged as a significant contributor for Toronto, averaging career highs this season, including 22.4 points and 6.0 assists per game. He will be pivotal against the Magic's reeling defense.
Both teams are accustomed to the struggles of injuries, with the Raptors also missing franchise point guard Immanuel Quickley due to a groin injury. Apart from Quickley, Ochai Agbaji is out with a hand laceration, and Chris Boucher is questionable due to illness. Toronto’s depth may offer some advantage against the injury-plagued Magic.
The Magic's challenges are compounded by their inability to find consistency on both ends of the court. They have lost four out of five games since Banchero's return, and their recent 113-100 loss to the Denver Nuggets didn't help their confidence. Head coach Jamahl Mosley has acknowledged the impact of these injuries, stating, "We need to adapt and find ways to create momentum even with our best players sidelined." The team will rely heavily on Banchero’s scoring and playmaking abilities alongside Wendell Carter Jr., who also scored 16 points against Denver.
On the betting front, the Magic enter as favorites, with odds set at -163, and the Raptors at +137. Early betting trends suggest heavy action on the Magic, who have won four consecutive matchups against Toronto dating back to last season. This statistic offers some comfort to Magic fans who desperately want to see their team return to form.
When the two teams last met on January 3, the Magic secured a 106-97 victory, showcasing solid defense and clutch shooting from behind the arc. After going 19-for-44 (43 percent) from three-point range, they will aim to replicate this success against the Raptors, who are currently struggling defensively, ranking 28th in the league.
This upcoming clash embodies the essence of NBA basketball rivalry, with both teams desperately wanting to reverse their fortunes. The Raptors will look to improve their below-par season with their home crowd behind them, hoping for inspiration from Barrett and Scottie Barnes, who are primed to deliver when called upon. Toronto's depth might supply them with the edge they need against the Magic, who must work collaboratively as they navigate through their injury struggles.
Looking at the expected lineups, the Raptors are projected to start Davion Mitchell, Gradey Dick, RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl. The Magic will counter with Cole Anthony, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Tristan da Silva, Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr. Each player's performance will significantly impact the game's outcome, particularly Banchero and Barrett. The matchup between these two stars is particularly intriguing; fans can expect intense back-and-forth action.
With tip-off approaching, anticipation is building for what could be another thrilling encounter between these Eastern Conference rivals. The game, available to stream on SportsNet and Fubo, promises the excitement of basketball at its finest, as both teams aim to kindle their playoff hopes.
Join the conversation and catch the action live to see if the Magic can regain their form and extend their winning streak against the Raptors, or if Toronto will be able to turn its season around with momentum on their side.