Orlando Magic vs Atlanta Hawks

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The Atlanta Hawks are set to face the Orlando Magic in an Eastern Conference matchup on Sunday. Both teams have encountered recent struggles, each recording a 4-6 record in their last ten games. The Hawks, currently holding a 14-20 season record, are reportedly considering significant changes ahead of the trade deadline.

In their latest game against the Pacers, the Hawks suffered a 150-116 defeat, with the defense allowing a remarkable 64% shooting from the field, including a staggering 71% in the first half. Dejounte Murray led Atlanta with 30 points, while Trae Young, their All-Star guard, struggled with only 13 points on 4-of-18 shooting.

Heading into Sunday's game, the Hawks boast the third-highest scoring offense in the NBA. However, their overall performance has been inconsistent, ranking 18th in both field goal percentage and 3-point shooting. Despite relying heavily on three-pointers, where they are ranked 7th in the league for 3-point field goals per game, the team faces defensive challenges.

Atlanta ranks 28th in points allowed per game, 30th in opponent's shooting percentage, and 27th in 3-point defense. On the rebounding front, the Hawks sit 17th in the NBA for total rebounds per game. Despite the impressive backcourt duo of Murray and Young, the team ranks 17th in turnovers per game.

The Orlando Magic have emerged as a surprising contender in the NBA this season, maintaining a 20-15 record and remaining firmly in the playoff race as the season approaches its midpoint. Despite recent struggles, winning only four of their last ten games, they achieved a remarkable victory against the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, with a score of 122-120. In this game, the young Magic squad, led by Paolo Banchero, secured a thrilling win through Banchero's pivotal free throws in the final seconds. Banchero's stellar performance marked his first career triple-double, amassing 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, sparking an impressive comeback after facing an 18-point deficit.

Offensively, the Magic currently rank 20th in the NBA for scoring, placing 16th in field goal percentage and a modest 27th in 3-point shooting. In contrast to the Hawks, who heavily rely on 3-pointers and stand at 28th in the league for 3-point field goals per game, the Magic have a less pronounced dependence on this aspect. Defensively, they hold the 11th spot in defensive scoring, 17th in opponent shooting percentage, and 11th in 3-point defense. Furthermore, they demonstrate strength in rebounding, ranking 8th in total rebounds per game. However, their youthful roster struggles with ball security, ranking 25th in turnovers per game.

The Magic's depth has been a significant factor contributing to their success this season. However, in their upcoming game, they will face challenges due to the absence of key players like Franz Wagner. Additionally, the Atlanta Hawks, their next opponents, enter the game after a demoralizing defeat against a different-styled Indiana Pacers team, known for a faster-paced game and frequent 3-point attempts. In contrast, the Magic adopt a more moderate pace and rely less on the 3-point shot.

One of the NBA Sunday games includes the Atlanta Hawks versus the Orlando Magic, their second encounter this season after their initial meeting in Mexico City on Nov. 9. We'll delve into the preview, prediction, starting lineups, and betting tips for their Jan. 7 game.

In their previous clash, the Hawks overcame a substantial fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Magic 120-119. Trae Young showcased an impressive performance with 41 points, four rebounds, eight assists, and three steals, supported by Jalen Johnson contributing 19 points and nine rebounds. Notably, seven Orlando players scored double-digit points, with Jalen Suggs leading at 21 points and six steals.

This upcoming game marks the 133rd regular-season meeting between the Hawks and Magic since their inaugural encounter on Nov. 11, 1989. The Hawks currently hold a lead in their head-to-head record, standing at 70-62, and have won eight of the last ten matchups against the Magic since May 13, 2021.

The Atlanta Hawks recently faced a tough loss against the Indiana Pacers on Friday, suffering a heavy 150-116 defeat, which brought their season record to 14-20. They've managed to win only four out of their last ten games.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic concluded a challenging four-game road trip with a remarkable comeback victory against the Denver Nuggets, overturning an 18-point deficit to secure a 122-120 win. This win was crucial for the Magic, considering their recent struggles that have dropped them to sixth place in the Eastern Conference.