Atlanta (40-42) at Orlando (41-41)
- When: Apr 15 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Kia Center, Orlando, FL, USA
- TV: TNT
Hawks vs Magic – NBA Prediction, Odds & Betting Analysis
Spread: Orlando -5.5 | Total: 219.0
The Orlando Magic host the Atlanta Hawks in a pivotal Eastern Conference Play-In clash Tuesday night, with the Magic listed as 5.5-point favorites and the total set at 219.0.
Orlando Magic Outlook
Orlando closed the regular season with serious momentum, finishing on a 9-3 surge that lifted them to the No. 7 seed and home-court advantage in this play-in matchup. After sitting at 32-38 in mid-March, the Magic rallied to .500, led by Paolo Banchero’s late-season scoring explosion. Over the last dozen games, Banchero averaged 28.2 points on nearly 48% shooting — ranking among the NBA’s top 10 scorers in that span.
Despite battling through key injuries earlier in the season — with Banchero and Franz Wagner both missing significant time due to oblique injuries — Orlando’s young core has come together at the right time. Defensively, they’ve been among the league’s elite, allowing the fewest points per game in the Eastern Conference.
This is Orlando’s first time in the play-in tournament, but they’re trending in the right direction and enter this one confident after a solid 119-112 home win over Atlanta just a week ago. If their defense shows up and Banchero continues his recent form, the Magic should take care of business.
Atlanta Hawks Outlook
Atlanta isn’t new to the play-in format — this marks their fourth straight appearance. With three wins in play-in history, they’re tied for the most in the NBA and come into this one with postseason experience on their side.
The Hawks won their final three games of the regular season to claim the No. 8 seed, including a 117-105 road win over the Magic on Sunday. Trae Young has returned to form after injury and averaged 30 points and 11.5 assists in back-to-back wins to end the regular season.
While Atlanta boasts an explosive offense, their defense has been inconsistent all year. Against a disciplined and defensive-minded Magic squad, they’ll need to keep turnovers down and shoot efficiently — especially from deep — to stay within striking distance.
This is a rematch-heavy series, as the two teams split 2-2 in the regular season. Notably, all four games went over 105 points for each side, but given the playoff pressure and Orlando’s defensive prowess, this one might tighten up.
Expert Prediction
The Magic are surging at the right time, with a balanced attack and elite defense that could frustrate Atlanta’s fast-paced offense. While the Hawks have more play-in experience and the hotter scorer in Trae Young, Orlando’s chemistry and home-court edge give them the upper hand.
Final Score Prediction: Magic 112, Hawks 105
Best Bet:
Pick: Orlando -5.5
Lean: Under 219.0, with playoff intensity likely slowing the pace compared to the regular-season series.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
