Orlando Magic vs New York Knicks Predictions

Banchero’s absence shifts the matchup toward New York

The Orlando Magic visit the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Sunday at 7:00 p.m. ET. New York is a 7.5-point favorite and -298 on the moneyline, while Orlando is +240.

Fubo News reports that Paolo Banchero is out with a right high-ankle sprain and is expected to miss approximately four to six weeks. Orlando will also be without Jonathan Isaac, Izaiyah Nelson and Noah Penda, while Anthony Black is questionable with an ankle injury. Those absences make it harder for the Magic to challenge a favored Knicks team on the road.

New York has its own availability question because guard Jose Alvarado is questionable with an ankle injury, according to iHeart Sports. His status adds some uncertainty, though Orlando’s confirmed losses are more substantial.

The likely winner is not the best bet

The injury report supports New York as the likely winner, but it does not justify laying -298 or 7.5 points by itself. With no confirmed starters, recent results or season statistics available for this matchup, there is not enough evidence to measure how either team should perform at these prices. The pick is New York to win, with no recommended wager.