The Orlando Magic and Oklahoma City Thunder meet in a battle of young and promising teams. The Thunder won in their first meeting last January 14th, 112-100.

Catch the game tomorrow at 8:30 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Oklahoma City Thunder (36-17, 15-11 AWAY)

Projected starting five:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
• Josh Giddey
• Lu Dort
• Jalen Williams
• Chet Holmgren

The Thunder got out of a two-game funk by edging out the Sacramento Kings, 127-113. They are only 4-4 over their last eight games, but at least back on the win column.

As always, the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams trio will be the thing to watch. They are collectively loaded on both ends, and all of its various aspects, from scoring, facilitating, disrupting the passing lanes, and paint defense, among others. Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP campaign is stronger than ever, and his 32.4 PPG on a smooth 54.8% shooting is simply a beauty. Holmgren’s rim protection and Williams’ timely scoring support are solid as well. 

Shai powered OKC in the aforementioned win vs. the Magic last month, pouring in 37 points, seven assists, and three steals with zero turnovers. He’ll have that in mind for tomorrow and if should further his confidence.

The Thunder are averaging 120.4 points and giving up 113.6 in return.

HOME: Orlando Magic (29-24, 17-7 HOME)

Projected starting five:

• Anthony Black
• Jalen Suggs
• Franz Wagner
• Paolo banchero
• Goga Bitadze

The Magic have won four of their last five outings. They are scoring 110.5 points and allowing 107.2 points on the other end across that stretch. It’s a good momentum to have as they look for some revenge.

We should see a hungry Magic squad hoping to redeem themselves from last month’s tough loss, especially Franz Wagner, who was out for the game due to an injury. 

The 22-year-old is having a breakout season with 21.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.1 steals, a good partner for Paolo Banchero, who’s also having a breakout year and has earned his first All-Star nod courtesy of 22.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.1 steals.

Similar to what we’ve seen all season, the secondary weapon will be very random, though it’s usually a mix of Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, and Wendell Carter Jr.

PREDICTIONS:

Handicap: The Thunder (-2.5) win and cover the spread.

Over/Under: The total goes over 226.