GST Staff

Magic vs. Raptors Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets January 03, 2025

Reeling Raptors seek turnaround vs defensively-stout Magic

Game Preview

The Toronto Raptors (8-26) host the Orlando Magic (20-15) in an Atlantic Division clash on Friday night. The struggling Raptors have won just one of their last 10 games and are desperately seeking to turn their season around, while the Magic look to bounce back from a narrow loss that snapped a three-game win streak.

Toronto's offensive woes have persisted all season, averaging just 116.1 points per game while shooting a shade under 47% from the field. Their three-point shooting has been particularly problematic, hovering around a lowly 34% clip. The Raptors have allowed a concerning 119.1 points per game, struggling to get stops despite grabbing nearly 47 rebounds and 8 steals per contest.

Recent form has been even more dismal for the home side. Over their last five games, the Raptors are averaging just 111.8 points while surrendering a whopping 133.6 points on 47% opponent shooting. They've been outrebounded, dishing fewer assists, and turning the ball over more frequently during this ugly stretch.

In contrast, the Magic have thrived on the defensive end this season, holding opponents to 103.6 points per game on 44.8% shooting. While their scoring output of 105.6 points is modest, Orlando has taken care of the ball (14.7 turnovers) and knocked down free throws at a strong 79.3% clip. Their balanced attack features 9.5 steals and 6.7 blocks per game.

However, the Magic's recent form has been shaky, going just 4-6 over their last 10 games. Their scoring dipped to 101.4 points during this stretch as they struggled from three-point range at 28.9%. Orlando's defense remained stout, but an uptick in turnovers (15.5 per game) prevented them from fully capitalizing.

The Raptors' woeful defensive efforts and inconsistent outside shooting have them reeling, while the Magic have leaned on their stifling defense amid offensive struggles of their own. With both teams looking to rediscover their early-season form, this divisional matchup could come down to which squad finds their rhythm first.