AP
It’s been mostly a season to forget for both the Hawks and Magic as injuries piled up for both teams.
The winner of Tuesday night’s play-in tournament opener punches a ticket to the playoffs, while the loser will play the winner of tomorrow’s matchup between the Heat and Bulls.
The Magic are favored by 5.5 points, but there’s not much value in backing either side in this one.
The two teams are a combined 81-82-1 against the spread (ATS) this season.
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Magic vs. Hawks prediction
Paolo Banchero has dominated the Hawks this season.
The former No. 1 pick will probably continue that trend Tuesday since Atlanta’s defense grades out as one of the worst in the NBA.
Dyson Daniels is the lone bright spot there, but Banchero averaged 33.3 points per game in three games against the Hawks this season.
Atlanta is also missing Jalon Johnson due to injury.
Banchero was white hot to end the season as well, with the Magic relying on his playmaking ability to pick up a struggling offense.
He’s scored 30 points in seven of his final 12 games and should be prepared to shoulder a heavy load again Tuesday in an attempt to will the Magic into the playoffs.
Bet on the Magic to win and a Banchero show-out performance to help them clinch a matchup with the vaunted Boston Celtics.
PICK: Paolo Banchero 30+ points scored (-120)
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