The Dallas Mavericks and Orlando Magic are a pair of teams in need of a reversal of fortune, as both are slipping down their respective conferences at the moment. Dallas are still sitting relatively pretty in a playoff spot in the Western Conference, but they won’t stay there long if their current form continues. The Magic are not faring much better, and the rumor is that they may be pretty active at the trade deadline. These are two teams that appear to be pretty evenly matched at the moment, which makes this a good game to wager on. We will have all the current odds as they happen, so be sure to check in regularly to the pro hoops online betting page.
Dallas Mavericks vs Orlando Magic NBA Odds Pick
When: Friday, February 19, 2016, 7:00 PM ET
Where: Amway Center, Orlando
TV: FSSW and FSSL
Radio: ESPN Radio 103.3 and AM 580 WDBO
NBA Odds: TBA
Why bet on the Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks (29-26) were one of the surprise teams in the early part of the season, but they faltered a little heading into the All-Star Break, which isn’t surprising given that they are not the youngest group of guys in the league. Dallas are just 4-6 in their last 10 games, and 4 of those losses came in their last 5 outings. While they would certainly like to have a better record on the road, there are plenty of teams in the NBA who would be delighted to have the 14-15 road record that the Mavericks put together through the first half. Where the Mavericks have had real success this season is against teams with a losing record, as they have gone an impressive 19-7 against that group. Going all the way back to the 2011-12 season, the Mavericks have reeled off 7 straight wins versus the Orlando Magic. Dallas are averaging 100.8 PPG, and are giving up 101.7 PPG.
Why bet on the Orlando Magic
There is an old saying about not being able to go home again, but if rumors are to be believed, there could be a homecoming of sorts for Dwight Howard. The Magic (23-29) are one of a handful of teams reported to be interested in signing the big man, and if they do, this may well end up being his first game back. Orlando certainly needs some help at the moment, as they are just 3-7 in their last 10 games, and are currently on the outside looking in at the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. In 29 attempts this season, the Orlando Magic have only managed to pick up 9 wins versus teams with a winning record. On the plus side, though, they do have a winning record at home, albeit just one game above .500. The Magic are averaging 99.4 PPG, and are giving up 100.8 PPG.
Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction
Both of these teams will be desperate to get their second half off to a good start, and I believe it will be Dallas who deliver the goods. I expect this to be a very tight one, though, and would not be surprised to see OT.
