Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Orlando Magic are fully engaged in the battle for seventh place in the Eastern Conference. The Magic have won four of their last five and now welcome the Dallas Mavericks, who, with Anthony Davis back in the mix, are clinging to a play-in spot in the West.
Orlando Magic
The Magic come into this one off the back of three consecutive wins, although those results came against severely weakened opposition — the injury-ravaged Los Angeles Lakers and bottom-tier sides the Charlotte Hornets and the Washington Wizards. There hasn't been a marked improvement in any specific area of their game, and putting up just 111 against the Hornets or 108 against the Houston Rockets isn’t exactly headline-worthy.
Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks have been handed a major boost with the return of star centre Anthony Davis. In his first game back from injury, he recorded 12 points and six rebounds — not eye-popping numbers, but there’s every chance he’ll build on that with each outing. One name that deserves special mention is Naji Marshall. Barely on the radar a few months ago, he’s now averaging 22.6 points over his last 10 games and recently dropped 38 against the third-placed New York Knicks.
Orlando Magic vs Dallas Mavericks Prediction
Bookmakers aren’t giving the Dallas Mavericks much of a chance, but with key players returning to the fold, both their offensive and defensive output is set to improve. This certainly won’t be easy for the Orlando Magic. With that in mind, there’s value in backing the visitors with a modest handicap.
