Preview: Orlando Magic vs. Atlanta Hawks
The stage is set for an exciting Eastern Conference showdown as the Orlando Magic prepare to face off against the Atlanta Hawks on January 17, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. ET. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter, taking place at the State Farm Arena, home of the Hawks.
In what will be their third meeting this season, the Hawks are tipped by many as the favorites to come out on top. With a winning percentage of 52.4 when favored, the statistics seem to back up this sentiment. However, the Magic have shown resilience as underdogs, securing 12 victories in 28 such games this season, which suggests that they could defy expectations once again.
Offensive and Defensive Matchup
A closer look at the teams' performances reveals a stark contrast in their offensive outputs. The Hawks boast a formidable offense, averaging 121.3 points per game, which ranks them fourth across the league. This high-powered scoring capability will test the Magic's defense, which has been one of their strengths. The Magic's defensive rating stands at 111.1, positioning them third in the league and setting the stage for an intriguing clash of styles.
Conversely, the Magic's offense, which averages 111.2 points per game, finds itself near the bottom of the rankings at 24th. They'll be up against a Hawks defense that has struggled throughout the season, with a defensive rating of 119.6, placing them 27th in the league. This could provide an opportunity for the Magic to exploit their opponent's vulnerabilities and keep the scoreboard ticking.
Impact Players
The spotlight will undoubtedly fall on several key players during this matchup. Paolo Banchero, who has been outstanding for the Magic, averages 22.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. His shooting efficiency from the field is 45.5 percent, and he maintains a respectable 35.6 percent from beyond the arc. Cole Anthony also remains a crucial component of the Magic's setup, contributing 13.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, with shooting accuracies of 44.1 percent from the floor and 33.3 percent from three-point range.
For the Hawks, Trae Young continues to be the linchpin of their offense. Averaging 27.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, and a remarkable 10.9 assists per game, Young's influence on the court is undeniable. He shoots 42.2 percent from the field and has a three-point shooting accuracy of 36.3 percent. Notably, Young is among the league leaders with an average of 3.4 three-pointers made per game. Dejounte Murray complements Young, tallying 20.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, and impresses with a field goal percentage of 46.7 and a three-point accuracy of 38.6 percent. On the defensive end, Murray contributes with an average of 1.3 steals and 0.3 blocks per game.
Injury Concerns
Both teams are grappling with injury issues that could impact their rotations. The Magic will be without Gary Harris, who is nursing a calf strain since January 3, marking his seventh consecutive absence. Franz Wagner is also sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained on the same date. Harris's absence is particularly concerning given his history of lower body soft tissue injuries.
Mouhamed Gueye remains out for the Magic since October 30 with a back injury. On the Hawks' side, De'Andre Hunter is recovering from a non-surgical procedure on his right knee, while Vit Krejci is dealing with a left shoulder dislocation, and Wesley Matthews is out with a right calf strain. Krejci, like Harris and Wagner, will miss his seventh straight game.
Quotable
Amid the pre-game discussions, one quote stands out, reflecting the admiration and high expectations surrounding one of the players: "He's beyond special," an anonymous source commented. "I've seen a lot of special players in this league. He's one of them. He's not even scratched the surface of what he's capable of doing." This statement captures the anticipation and excitement of fans and analysts alike as they await the upcoming performance of these talented athletes.
As tip-off approaches, all eyes will be on the State Farm Arena, where the Orlando Magic seek to upset the odds against the Atlanta