Orlando Magic vs. Indiana Pacers Will be Battle of Top Offense Against a Top Defense
So far this season, the Orlando Magic has been very effective at holding its opponents to very low point totals. The team is second in the NBA in points allowed per game, only behind the New York Knicks.
Many of the Magic's players have said that the team takes pride in its defense, including young star Paolo Banchero. He has said the the Magic "hangs its hat on defense", and the team is going to need that in its next matchup.
The Magic's next opponent is statistically the best offensive team in the NBA at the opponent, the Indiana Pacers. They have scored the most points per game of any team in the NBA with 126.5. The Pacers are also the number two team in the league in field goal percentage with 50%.
Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony (50) drives past Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9)
USA Today Sports
Most of the Pacers' success can be attributed to the absolutely electric play of All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. In his last two games, Haliburton has an absurd 32 assists with not turnovers. His passing has been dicing up defenses all season, and the Magic will look to halt that trend.
So far this season, the Orlando Magic has allowed the least amount of assists per game of any team in the league, and the team will be hoping to use that stat in order to slow down the spectacular playmaking of Haliburton.
The Magic is looking to win its third game in a row tonight against the Pacers, but it will be no small task, as the Pacers have won four of their last five games. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. ET from Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
