Orlando Magic Vs. Atlanta Hawks Picks, Parlays and Betting Predictions - Tuesday 11/04/2025

Magic vs. Hawks: The Race for .500 and the Rise of Jalen

This matchup between the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks down in Atlanta is for bragging rights and, frankly, the right to not feel like a total disappointment this early in the season. Both the Magic and the Hawks are sputtering out of the gate with identical, frustrating 3-4 records. Neither team has found their identity yet, which means tonight’s contest at State Farm Arena is absolutely critical if they want to get back to the ever-elusive .500 mark.

For Orlando, it’s all about the two Wagners—Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, that is. Wait, I meant Banchero and Franz. Those two are carrying the offense, with Banchero averaging a near 23-10 stat line. But they’ve been relying on a bunch of isolation plays, and the outside shooting is still rough; they’re bottom-five in the league in three-point attempts. They’re lucky they don't have many serious injuries, with just Mo Wagner out due to a knee issue. The Magic need Anthony Black and Wendell Carter Jr. to start providing more consistent help to take pressure off the young stars.

On the Hawks' side, the big man's injury is what everyone’s watching. Trae Young is still sidelined with that knee injury, and he’s expected to be out until the end of the month, which is a massive blow. But the silver lining? Jalen Johnson has taken the keys and is driving the bus. Johnson is balling out, leading the team with over 21 points per game and doing it efficiently. Plus, they’ve got Kristaps Porzingis putting up solid numbers. 

The issue for Atlanta, even at home, is defense. They're giving up way too many points, ranking near the bottom of the league in points allowed. If they can’t slow down Banchero and Franz, Johnson's heroics might not be enough. This game is essentially a toss-up, a battle between Orlando's dominant young duo and Atlanta's depth, fueled by Johnson's recent surge. Expect fireworks, but don’t expect much defense.

The Over/Under is 229 ½, which shouldn't be a problem. Even though the Magic were near the bottom last season, going 38-50 to the Over, this offensive battle will help both teams find the board.