Orlando Magic (29-34) vs Chicago Bulls (24-38)
Game Info: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Kia Center)
Betting Odds: Orlando Magic -7.5 -- Over/Under: 219.5 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: FanDuel SN FL
The Orlando Magic (29-34) will host the Chicago Bulls (24-38) on March 6, 2025, at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. The Magic enter the matchup on a four-game losing streak, most recently falling 114-113 to the Toronto Raptors. They have been dealing with injuries, as starting guard Jalen Suggs and center Moritz Wagner are out for the season, while Cole Anthony’s status remains uncertain. Despite their struggles, Paolo Banchero has been dominant, averaging 33.7 points over the last four games, including two 41-point performances. Franz Wagner has also been a consistent offensive contributor, averaging around 25 points per game. However, Orlando has struggled with three-point shooting, ranking last in the league in both makes and percentage.
On the other hand, the Bulls have also been struggling, losing two consecutive games and going 4-11 since trading Zach LaVine. Injuries have been a concern, with Ayo Dosunmu out for the season and uncertainty surrounding the availability of Josh Giddey, Coby White, Kevin Huerter, and Nikola Vucevic. Patrick Williams is expected to return, providing some much-needed depth. Coby White has been a bright spot, scoring 25 points in their recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Giddey continues to be a strong playmaker, averaging 6.61 assists per game. Chicago’s offense has remained steady, averaging 116.5 points per game, but their defense has been a major issue, allowing 123 points per game since LaVine's departure.
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Paolo Banchero Over 25.5 Points
Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero has participated in 18 games during the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 24.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. Banchero began the season with a strong performance, notably scoring 50 points against the Indiana Pacers on October 28, 2024. However, he suffered a torn right oblique on October 30, 2024, which sidelined him until early January 2025. He returned to action on January 8, 2025, contributed significantly to the team's efforts since then. We've seen Banchero score 41 points in his last game against the Toronto Raptors, and he did it against two games back against the Warriors. It seems like Banchero is fed up with how this Magic team is performing and is taking matters in his own hands. He has a favorable matchup going against this Chicago Bulls team that has been lackluster on the defensive side of the ball. Expect another strong game from Paulo Banchero.
Coby White Over 20.5 Points
Chicago Bulls guard Coby White has played in 55 games during the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 18.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. In his most recent games, White scored 26 points against the Indiana Pacers on March 2, 2025, and 24 points against the Toronto Raptors on February 28, 2025. This Bulls team is dealing with many injuries to key players, so Coby white has had to step up in a big way. If the Bulls want to have any chance in this game, he will have to be Chicago's main ball-handler and scoring threat.
Wendell Carter Over 8.5 Rebounds
Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. has played in 50 games during the 2024-25 NBA season, averaging 7.5 rebounds per game. His total rebounds for the season stand at 374, with 104 coming on the offensive glass and 270 on the defensive end. In his most recent game on March 4 against the Toronto Raptors, Carter Jr. recorded 6 rebounds in 24 minutes of play. We've seen Wendell Carter secure 9 or more rebounds in six of his last eight games. He has a favorable matchup in this game going against the Chicago Bulls, who are giving up 55.1 rebounds per game to opposing teams, which is the second most in the whole league. Carter should have a lot of opportunities to clean up on the glass in this one.
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AUTHOR: Brad Francis
