MAGIC VS RAPTORS: As the Toronto Raptors prepare to host the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena, both teams are looking to improve their standings.
MAGIC VS RAPTORS: As the Toronto Raptors prepare to host the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena, both teams are looking to improve their standings.
MAGIC VS RAPTORS: As the Toronto Raptors prepare to host the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena, both teams are looking to improve their standings.
The Raptors currently hold a 10-32 record, placing them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, while the Magic stand at 23-21, aiming to solidify their playoff position.
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The Raptors have faced challenges this season, particularly on the defensive end, allowing an average of 119.1 points per game, which ranks them among the bottom in the league. Offensively, they average 111.6 points per game. In contrast, the Magic have been more defensively sound, allowing 103.6 points per game, while scoring an average of 105.6 points per game.
Injuries could play a significant role in this matchup. For the Magic, key players such as Franz Wagner (torn right oblique), Moe Wagner (torn left ACL), and Gary Harris (left hamstring strain) are listed as out. Jett Howard is questionable with a left ankle sprain, and Jalen Suggs is out due to a low back strain. The Raptors have their own concerns, with Ochai Agbaji (right hand laceration) and Immanuel Quickley (left hip strain) ruled out, and Chris Boucher questionable due to illness.
Considering the Raptors' defensive struggles and the Magic's injury-depleted roster, there's potential for a high-scoring game. The Raptors' games have frequently surpassed the 214.5-point mark this season, and their defensive lapses could allow the Magic to capitalize offensively. Given these factors, placing a bet on the total points exceeding 216.5 seems favorable.
Taking into account the Raptors' defensive vulnerabilities and the Magic's potential to exploit them, I am placing a 3-unit bet on the game total going over 216.5 points. This wager aligns with the observed trends and current team dynamics leading up to the game.