Paolo Banchero Returns to MSG as Magic Aim for Fourth Straight Win Over Knicks
The last encounter between the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden was marred for Paolo Banchero, who exited the game in the second quarter due to a groin injury. This setback sidelined the promising forward for ten games. However, the Magic showcased their depth and resilience, cruising to a 124-107 victory that night. Despite Banchero’s absence, Orlando managed a commendable 7-3 record, culminating in his return on Friday, where he played a pivotal role in a nail-biting 106-105 win.
New York, one of the teams that fell victim to the Magic during that stretch, faced Orlando twice this season, suffering a 133-121 defeat at the Kia Center on November 22. Since that loss, the Knicks have rebounded impressively, posting a 6-1 record and reclaiming the Atlantic Division lead, now positioned just behind the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference.
Game Day Details
As the Magic prepare to clash with the Knicks again, fans can tune in for this high-stakes matchup on Sunday, December 7, at 12:10 p.m. EST, live from Madison Square Garden.
Where to Watch:
– TV: FanDuel Sports Network Florida/CW 18 (Magic), MSG (Knicks)
– Radio: FM 96.9 The Game/AM 740 WYGM (Magic), WEPN-FM (Knicks)
Magic and Knicks Gear Up for NBA Cup Knockout Stage
This matchup marks the third meeting in just over a month between the Magic and the Knicks, setting the stage for both teams to fine-tune their strategies as they approach the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday. Although it is early in the season, the familiarity between these squads should elevate the competitive atmosphere, mimicking the intensity of playoff basketball.
The Magic will face a familiar opponent in the Miami Heat, with whom they recently battled, while the Knicks are set to visit the Toronto Raptors, who they faced on November 30. Unless they meet again in the NBA Cup, this will be the final regular-season showdown between New York and Orlando. The Magic have dominated their recent encounters, winning three straight and holding a 7-4 record against the Knicks over the last 11 matchups, despite a rough start to 2024.
Betting Lines
According to DraftKings, the betting lines for this matchup are as follows:
Spread: Knicks -2.5 (-120), Magic +2.5 (+100)
Moneyline: Knicks -162, Magic +136
Total: 233.5 (Over -108, Under -112)
Note that game odds are subject to change, and if you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, assistance is available by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.
Projected Starters
Knicks
F: OG Anunoby
F: Josh Hart
C: Karl-Anthony Towns
G: Jalen Brunson
G: Mikal Bridges
Magic
F: Paolo Banchero
F: Franz Wagner
C: Wendell Carter Jr.
G: Jalen Suggs
G: Desmond Bane
Injury Report
Knicks
Karl-Anthony Towns: Questionable (Left Calf Tightness)
Landry Shamet: Out (Left Shoulder Strain)
Pacome Dadiet: Questionable (G League – On Assignment)
Tosan Evbuomnwan: Questionable (G League – Two-way)
Trey Jemison III: Questionable (G League – Two-way)
Kevin McCullar Jr.: Questionable (G League – Two-way)
Magic
Franz Wagner: Available (Face mask)
Moritz Wagner: Out (Left Knee Injury Recovery)
Colin Castleton: Out (G League – Two-way)
Jamal Cain: Out (G League – Two-way)
Orlando Robinson: Out (G League – Two-way)
Quotable
After a standout performance that included a commanding 23-0 start in his return earlier this week, Knicks forward OG Anunoby reflected on the team’s focus: “I didn’t really notice it. We were just playing. Someone told us later. I didn’t even notice they didn’t score. We were just getting stops and going.”
As both teams look to solidify their positions heading into the NBA Cup, fans can expect an electrifying showdown in New York.
