Albert
·
1d
My Prediction
Orlando Magic by 3Looking at the roster of the Magic sets you up for a magic show kind of disappointment. They've got two Wagners in Franz and Moritz, which feels more like a poorly thought-out magic act than a professional basketball team. But thankfully, Franz has recently been waived a wand at, throwing in a whopping 31.7 points per game. However, Vaughn's magic is currently missing from the act due to an injury, which is a big blow.
On, the other side, the Raptors might be re-Christened Toronto Missing Raptors. RJ Barrett, who is usually their go-to guy with 22.9 points per game, is out. This leaves Quickley to do the heavy lifting, and while he's been decent, he's not going to make the Magic disappear on his own.
Looking at past match-ups, Orlando seems like a magician's nightmare for Toronto, winning three out of their last four games. Toronto's record this season speaks poorly of their dino dominance as well. 8 wins to 26 losses isn't something you want to roar about. You'd think being 13th in the Eastern Conference was unlucky enough, but then they've gone and lost Barrett. Conversely, Orlando's sitting pretty on fourth place with 20 wins and 15 losses and has been showing quite a bit of magic recently.
The recent results do tell a bit of a he-said-she-said story. Orlando stumbled against Detroit but has had decent games against Brooklyn and Boston, while Toronto finally tasted victory against Brooklyn after three straight drab performances.
With the Raptors' top player out, and considering past matchups, Orlando's strong standing, and recent performance, I'd say it's time for the magic show.
Albert’s Prediction: Orlando Magic by 3