The Orlando Magic will face the Philadelphia 76ers in an important Eastern Conference clash on Sunday, January 11, 2025, at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Both teams are aiming to secure a much-needed victory to improve their standings.
Orlando Magic Preview:
The Magic (22-18) are looking to avoid a three-game losing streak after recent defeats against Minnesota and Milwaukee. The return of Paolo Banchero couldn’t have come at a better time. In his first game back from an oblique tear that kept him out for two-plus months, Banchero scored 34 points on 11-of-21 shooting, including five three-pointers, against the Milwaukee Bucks. Banchero, the 2022 No4. 1 overall pick, is averaging an impressive 29.8 points per game. Despite his limited games, his form is a massive boost for Orlando.
Unfortunately, Franz Wagner, who leads the Magic in assists with 5.7 per game and averages 24.4 points per game, remains out with a torn oblique. The Magic have struggled offensively, averaging only 104.8 points per game, the lowest in the league.
Philadelphia 76ers Preview:
The 76ers (15-21) are experiencing a challenging season, sitting six games below .500 after a 3-14 start. Their recent 123-115 home loss to the New Orleans Pelicans highlighted ongoing issues without their star center, Joel Embiid. Embiid, who has played just 13 games this season and averages 24.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, is questionable for Sunday’s game.
Tyrese Maxey has emerged as the 76ers’ primary offensive option, averaging a team-high 25.7 points and 5.9 assists per game. Paul George, acquired over the summer, has yet to fulfill expectations, averaging only 16.5 points per game, his lowest since the 2012-2013 season. Coach Nick Nurse will need to find consistency amongst his players and solidify their defense, allowing 110.8 points per game.
Key Matchup:
The key matchup to watch will be between Paolo Banchero and Tyrese Maxey. Both players are vital to their team’s success and their performances could determine the outcome. Banchero’s scoring and overall play will be crucial for the Magic, while Maxey’s offensive contributions will be vital for the 76ers in the potential absence of Embiid.
Historical Context:
Orlando has won two of the first three matchups between these teams this season. In their last meeting on December 6, 2024, Philadelphia secured a 102-94 victory.
