Game Preview
The Orlando Magic (10-7) will look to extend their winning streak to two games as they host the struggling Detroit Pistons (7-10) on Saturday night. While the Magic have found their groove recently, going 7-3 over their last 10 games, the Pistons have dropped two straight and are just 5-5 over that same stretch.
Orlando has been clicking on both ends, averaging 106 points while holding opponents under 99 points per game over their last 10 contests. Their defense has been particularly stout, limiting foes to just 98.8 points on 45.6% shooting. The Magic have also taken care of the ball, committing just 14.3 turnovers per game during this hot stretch.
Conversely, Detroit has struggled to find consistency. Despite a potent offense averaging 114.2 points over their last 10 games, the Pistons are surrendering 112.5 points per contest. Their defensive woes have been compounded by sloppy play, as they've coughed up the ball 14.2 times per game. However, Detroit's prowess on the glass, grabbing 50.4 rebounds, has helped offset some of those issues.
For the season, the Magic have been fueled by a balanced attack and stingy defense. They're scoring 106.8 points per game while allowing just 103.2 points, a nearly 4-point differential. Orlando has also excelled at protecting the ball, hovering around 14 turnovers per contest. The Pistons, meanwhile, have struggled to gain traction, with their potent 110.4 points per game offset by leaky defense that surrenders 111.6 points on average.
With the home court advantage and recent strong play, the Magic will look to take advantage of the Pistons' road woes and extend their winning ways. However, Detroit's firepower keeps them within striking distance if they can tighten up their defensive lapses and sloppy play. An intriguing matchup is shaping up in Orlando.