GST Staff

Jazz vs. Magic Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets January 05, 2025

Reeling Jazz Seek to Halt Skid Against Surging Magic

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The Utah Jazz have stumbled out of the gates this season, limping into Orlando with a dismal 7-25 record and riding a 5-game losing streak. Their struggles have been evident on both ends, as they've surrendered a hefty 119.8 points per game while managing just 110.7 points on the offensive end.

The Jazz's recent form has been particularly concerning, as they've been outscored by 9.6 points per game over their last 5 contests. Their defense has been shredded, allowing a staggering 122.2 points during this stretch, while their offense has managed just 113.6 points - a recipe for disaster on the road.

In contrast, the Orlando Magic have been a pleasant surprise this season, sporting a 21-15 record and riding a modest one-game win streak. They've been a balanced team, scoring 105.6 points while allowing just 103.4 points per game. Their recent form has been solid, as they've gone 12-8 over their last 20 games, highlighted by a 105.4-point scoring average and stingy 104.3 points allowed.

One key advantage for the Magic has been their prowess on the glass, where they've grabbed 41.6 rebounds per game this season, nearly 3 boards more than the Jazz's 38.7 rebounds. The Magic have also taken better care of the ball, committing 14.6 turnovers compared to Utah's sloppy 17.6 turnovers per game.

While the Jazz have been slightly more prolific from three-point range, hitting at a 36.6 percent clip versus Orlando's 30.8 percent, the Magic have been far superior at getting to the line and converting, shooting a stellar 79.2 percent from the charity stripe compared to Utah's 79.1 percent.

With the Magic playing inspired basketball at home and the Jazz mired in a lengthy road skid, the smart money would appear to be on Orlando extending Utah's misery. Unless the Jazz can tighten up their defense and find a way to slow down the Magic's balanced attack, their struggles could continue in this inter-conference clash.