Magic Look to Bounce Back at Home Against Pelicans

The Orlando Magic (30-36) are in the Kia Center on Thursday night as they host the New Orleans Pelicans (18-48). Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.

game 67🪄

🆚: @PelicansNBA
📍: New Orleans, LA
🕗: 8 P.M.
📺: @FanDuelSN_FL
📻: @969gameon
📡: https://t.co/2qKvB3OK9k pic.twitter.com/i4JDo6Su76

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 13, 2025

Orlando enters the matchup having lost six of its last seven games, including a 97-84 road loss to the Houston Rockets on Monday. Meanwhile, the Pelicans are coming off of a surprising win against the Los Angeles Clippers 127-120.

Magic Trying to Find Consistency

The Magic started the first 41 games of the season strong with a record of 23-18. The same can’t be said in the second half as they are slipping in the Eastern Conference standings. Orlando currently sits in the play-in tournament mix but needs to turn things around quickly.

Star forward Paolo Banchero continues to be the focal point of Orlando’s offense. He’s averaging 24.3 points per game. Right there alongside him is Franz Wagner, who is providing 24.5 points per game. This gives Orlando a young dynamic duo on the wing.

some of my fav @Pp_doesit highlights since the all-star break

28.1 PTS | 6.4 REB | 4.2 AST pic.twitter.com/TU32PxnSpG

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 13, 2025

However, the Magic’s biggest struggle has been their offensive efficiency. Orlando ranks as the worst team in points per game (104.3). The Magic will need to capitalize on opportunities against a Pelicans defense that allows 119.1 points per game to opponents.

Pelicans Looking to Ruin Magic’s Playoff Dreams

New Orleans has endured a tough season, sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference. However, they have the firepower to challenge teams on any given night, especially with Zion Williamson back in the lineup.

Williamson, who has battled injuries throughout the season, posted a triple-double (22 points, 10 rebounds, 12 assists) in the win over the Clippers and is averaging 24.4 points per game. Trey Murphy III has stepped up this season in Zion’s absence. He is averaging 21.7 points and has proven to be an important piece for the Pelicans, averaging 35.6 minutes per game (the most on the team).

The Pelicans will aim to take advantage of Orlando’s recent struggles and spoil the Magic’s playoffs chances.

Injury Updates

• Pelicans: Yves Missi (ankle) listed as questionable for Thursday’s game. Kelly Olynyk (personal) ruled out for Thursday’s game. Brandon Boston (left ankle stress reaction) re-evaluated in two weeks. Herbert Jones (torn rotator cuff) ruled out for the season. Dejounte Murray (torn right Achilles tendon ) ruled out for the season.
• Magic: Jalen Suggs (Knee surgery) ruled out for the season. Moritz Wagner (torn ACL) ruled out for the season.

Looking Ahead

Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. at the Kia Center.

The game will air on FanDuel Sports Network Florida.