Orlando Magic (29-31) vs Golden State Warriors (31-27)
Game Info: Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Kia Center)
Betting Odds: Orlando Magic +6 -- Over/Under: 211 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: FanDuel SN FL
The Golden State Warriors are set to face the Orlando Magic on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Kia Center in Orlando. The Warriors, currently holding a 31-27 record, are on a four-game winning streak, recently dominating the Charlotte Hornets with a 128-92 victory. In that matchup, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green each contributed 15 points, while Buddy Hield added 16 points off the bench. Notably, Jimmy Butler's recent integration into the team has been pivotal, enhancing both offensive and defensive dynamics. Head coach Steve Kerr has been working closely with Jonathan Kuminga, who is returning from a sprained right ankle, encouraging him to emulate Butler's measured and fundamental playing style.
The Orlando Magic, with a 29-31 record, are aiming to rebound from a 122-82 home loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In that game, Paolo Banchero led the team with 26 points, and Franz Wagner added 19 points. However, the team struggled with perimeter shooting, converting only 5 of 28 attempts from beyond the arc. Additionally, guard Cole Anthony departed the game with a hyperextended left knee and is currently listed as questionable for the upcoming matchup against the Warriors.
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Wendell Carter Over 7.5 Rebounds
Wendell Carter Jr. has been a consistent presence on the boards for the Orlando Magic during the 2024-25 NBA season. In 55 games, he has averaged 6.9 rebounds per game, with 4.9 defensive rebounds and 2.0 offensive rebounds per game. In terms of league rankings, his 6.9 rebounds per game place him 33rd among all players.
Carter is coming off a game where he only secured six rebounds against the Cleveland Cavs, but the Cavs are one of the best rebounding teams in the league, with Allen and Mobley in the paint. Before that game, we saw him have nine or more rebounds in four straight games. Carter has a favorable matchup going against the Warriors, who play small and are allowing 53.1 rebounds per game to opposing teams, which is well above the league average.
Steph Curry Under 25.5 Points
Stephen Curry has been a key offensive player for the Golden State Warriors during the 2024-25 NBA season. In 49 games, he has averaged 23.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency includes a field goal percentage of 43.9% and a three-point shooting percentage of 38.7%. Curry's free-throw percentage stands at an impressive 92.7%.
Since Jimmy Butler has joined the Warriors, Steph Curry's scoring numbers have been solid but up and down. He has scored less than 25 points in three of his last five games, and he has a tough matchup going against this magic team. The Magic pride themselves on playing strong perimeter defense and are allowing just 105.5 points per game to opposing teams, which is the fewest in the league.
Brandin Podziemski Under 3.5 Assists
Brandin Podziemski has been a valuable contributor to the Golden State Warriors during the 2024-25 NBA season. In 45 games, he has averaged 10.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 43.2%. Podziemski's ball-handling and playmaking abilities have allowed Stephen Curry to play more off the ball, adding a new dimension to the Warriors' offense.
I like what Podziemski brings to this Warriors team, but this isn't a great matchup for him when it comes to facilitating the ball. He's coming off back-to-back games where he only had two assists against the Dallas Mavericks and the Charlotte Hornets. Now he has to play this Orlando Magic team that's giving up just 23 assists per game to opposing teams, which is the second fewest in the league.
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AUTHOR: Brad Francis
