Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
Four teams in the Eastern Conference continue their battle for play-in spots, with the Chicago Bulls currently 10th and the Orlando Magic 8th, leading by five wins. This head-to-head clash could either kill the intrigue or intensify the pressure on Magic fans.
Orlando Magic
The Magic are struggling, having lost four games in a row, including two shock defeats to the Toronto Raptors (113:114 and 102:104). Their offensive playmaker Jalen Suggs remains sidelined, and now both Mo Wagner and Cole Anthony have joined him in the injury list. This is a major blow for the league's worst offence, which averages just 104.1 points per game with the lowest shooting percentage (44%) in the NBA.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls are in far better shape in terms of squad depth. Key playmaker Josh Giddey is expected to return for this game, and he has been carrying the offence in recent matches, averaging 19.2 points, 52.4% from three, and 6.9 assists. Additionally, Coby White is on fire, averaging 25 points per game in his last three. Rookie Matas Buzelis is also making progress, increasing his production to 12.6 points in his last 10 games, compared to 7.1 per game earlier in the season.
Orlando Magic vs Chicago Bulls Prediction
The Orlando Magic are considered the favourites going into the match, but their recent four-game losing streak, including two defeats against one of the league’s weakest teams, raises serious doubts about their form. We believe the Chicago Bulls have every chance to put up a serious fight.