Game Preview
The Orlando Magic come into New York riding a scorching six-game winning streak, making them one of the hottest teams in the league. Over their last 10 games, the Magic have won an impressive nine times, posting a blistering 90% win rate. Their stifling defense has been the catalyst, holding opponents to just 99.2 points per game while forcing over 10 steals and 8 blocks per contest.
While the Magic's offense has been merely solid, averaging 107.5 points on 46.2% shooting from the field over this stretch, their defensive intensity has been suffocating. Orlando's ability to protect the rim, disrupt passing lanes, and get out in transition has fueled their recent surge. In their last five games, the Magic have taken their defense to another level, surrendering a measly 99 points per game while swatting nearly 9.4 blocks and swiping 11.6 steals per night.
On the other side, the Knicks have found their stride as well, winning 7 of their last 10 games. New York's offense has been clicking, pouring in 121.5 points per game on a scorching 50.4% shooting clip from the field over this stretch. While their defense has been relatively solid, allowing 112.9 points per contest, it's their potent scoring attack that has propelled them up the standings.
In a clash of two teams riding high, it will be a battle of Orlando's stifling defense against New York's red-hot offense. The Magic's ability to disrupt the Knicks' rhythm and force turnovers could swing the game, while New York will look to push the pace and attack the rim to open up their lethal perimeter shooting. With both squads playing at an elite level, this matchup has all the makings of an intense, playoff-like atmosphere at Madison Square Garden.