San Antonio Spurs vs Orlando Magic
PREVIEW: The Orlando Magic allow few 3-point attempts on defense while maintaining a high free throw rate, yet struggle with inefficient perimeter shooting and surrender quality looks from deep. Coming off an impressive comeback victory over Toronto on Friday, the Magic head into San Antonio riding a two-game winning streak after dominating the fourth quarter. Orlando's season has been complicated by injuries to cornerstone players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, with Wagner appearing in just 26 of the team's 47 games due to a lingering ankle issue. Despite these obstacles, the Magic have actually improved their offensive efficiency compared to last year, though their defense has declined significantly from second to 16th in rating.
San Antonio demonstrates elite rim protection on the perimeter while maintaining low turnovers, but struggles defending shots that attack the basket and operates with limited spacing offensively. The Spurs face the Magic on the second night of a back-to-back after Saturday's loss to Charlotte, with the game having been moved up due to difficult travel conditions. Victor Wembanyama anchors San Antonio's attack with over 24 points and 11 rebounds per game, though he recorded fewer shot attempts than usual in the Hornets defeat. The schedule spot presents intrigue, as the well-rested Magic face a fatigued Spurs squad that struggled offensively in their previous outing.