Orlando Magic vs Atlanta Hawks
PREVIEW: The Orlando Magic aim to continue their offensive momentum when they host the Atlanta Hawks in a Southeast Division showdown at the Kia Center. After an impressive season opener where they scored 125 points, the Magic are looking to build on their offensive improvements from last year. Desmond Bane made an instant impact in his debut for Orlando, dropping 23 points in a tight 125-121 win over Miami. With Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner healthy, and Jalen Suggs returning from knee surgery, the Magic have legitimate potential to be a force in the Eastern Conference.
The Hawks enter this matchup reeling from a shocking 138-118 home opener loss to the Toronto Raptors, where their defensive vulnerabilities were dramatically exposed. They boast talented offensive players like Trae Young, who is crafty at drawing contact, and Kristaps Porzingis, who presents a challenging matchup. The Hawks are currently averaging 118 points, with Trae Young putting up 22 points, Jalen Johnson contributing 22 points and 7 rebounds, and Kristaps Porzingis as their third double-digit scorer. For the Magic, playing at home has been a strength, as they are 5-1 in their last six home games.