Hornets vs Magic Odds, Picks, Predictions | NBA Betting Preview (Tuesday, March 19)

Here's everything you need to know about Hornets vs. Magic on Tuesday, March 19 — our expert prediction and betting picks for today's game.

As the Charlotte Hornets prepare to tip off against the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night, the game only truly matters for one of these teams. This matchup showcases a young Magic squad that has surprised many this season against a Hornets team eager to defy their underdog status.

The game, set in Orlando, promises to showcase a series of stats and insights, making it a hotbed of betting intrigue.

Pick: Magic -12.5 (-108 at FanDuel)

The Hornets have had a challenging season, struggling to find their rhythm offensively, which is reflected in their 29th ranking in Offensive Rating. Their difficulties in scoring are compounded by their 28th place in effective field goal percentage (eFG%) and their position at the bottom of the league in free throw rate.

Despite these challenges, Charlotte has shown sparks of potential, with a 10th place in turnovers, indicating a level of care with the ball that could disrupt higher-ranked teams.

Defensively, the Hornets haven't fared much better, ranking 26th in Defensive Rating and 29th in eFG% allowed. However, their ability to force turnovers, ranking 10th in this category, could serve as a linchpin in their strategy against the Magic.

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The Magic, on the other hand, have been one of the season's pleasant surprises, boasting a robust fourth place in Defensive Rating. Their defense is their hallmark, with a commendable 13th in eFG% allowed and leading the league in turnovers forced.

This defensive prowess, coupled with their second rank in defensive rebounding, forms a formidable barrier for any team.

Offensively, while the Magic rank 23rd in Offensive Rating, their ability to grab offensive rebounds (sixth) and their third place in free throw rate highlight an aggressive approach that compensates for their lower eFG% and free throw percentage.

This blend of aggressive offense and stalwart defense underpins the Magic's success this season.

Considering the matchup's dynamics, taking the Magic -12.5 emerges as the most compelling bet.

The rationale lies not just in the statistical analysis but in the narrative underpinning this game. The Magic's defensive tenacity, combined with their ability to exploit the Hornets' offensive woes, positions them favorably to cover the spread.

The Magic's ability to force turnovers and capitalize on offensive rebounds presents a significant challenge for the Hornets, whose struggles in offensive efficiency and defensive rebounding could be exacerbated in this matchup.

Moreover, the game being in Orlando adds an extra layer of advantage for the Magic, whose performance this season has increasingly turned the Amway Center into a fortress. Betting on the Magic -12.5 is not just a reflection of the teams' respective strengths and weaknesses but also a belief in the Magic's ability to control the game's pace and utilize their defensive strengths to limit the Hornets' scoring opportunities.

Orlando is the best team against the spread this season (66% ATS) and that number is even more dominant at home (71% ATS) and especially as a home favorite (83%). Meanwhile, the Hornets are the third-worst team ATS this season (39%) and that number lowers when on the road (37%) and especially as a road underdog (35%).

Take the Magic -12.5 and expect another dominant home performance from one of the best young teams in the NBA.

Pick: Magic -12.5 (-108 at FanDuel)

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