NBA Report: A Preview into the Magic vs. Pacers

As the NBA regular season comes to an end, the Orlando Magic (40-40) closes the season on the road with the first of the two games in Indianapolis against the Pacers (49-31).

A Question of Motivation

With the Magic locking down the 7-seed after a dominating win against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday, it seems there is not much the team could play for. Unless gaining a winning or .500 record is a primary concern for the team, the Magic have nothing more to play for. Since the Magic have not secured a spot in the playoffs and will be hosting the No. 8 seed (TBD), they will most likely not play their full starting roster.

southeast division champs ✔️ pic.twitter.com/T491hwou01

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) April 10, 2025

The only one of those players with an injury that is actually concerning is Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, listed as QUESTIONABLE with a left knee strain after he left Wednesday’s game in the second quarter. The projected starters for the game are guards Cory Joseph and Cole Anthony, forwards Gary Harris and Caleb Houstan, and center Jonathan Isaac.

Playing the Pacers

The Indiana Pacers, on the other hand, have a lot to play for. For starters, the Pacers have a chance to win game 50 on Friday for the first time in 10 years. They are on fire at home, winning five straight games and 13 of the last 14. With another home win under Indiana’s belt, the Pacers are looking to have home court advantage going into round one of the playoffs.

Starting for the Pacer’s will be the usual 5: guards Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard, forwards Aaron Nesmith and Pascal Siakam, and center Myles Turner.

The Matchup

Tipoff is at 7 p.m. ET from Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. You can watch the game on Fubo, NBA League Pass, YouTube or YouTube TV.