Magic vs. Sixers Prediction and Odds: Can Shorthanded Orlando hang with Philly?

The Orlando Magic have lost six games in a row after their leading scorer, Cole Anthony, who continues to deal with an ankle injury. Now, with Mo Bamba also questionable, the Magic will be shorthanded again and facing a talented 76ers team.

The Philadephia 76ers are .500 on the season with a 10-10 record and coming off back-to-back losses to Minnesota and Golden State. While they lost their last game out, they did get Joel Embiid back from a nine-game absence. Embiid picked up right where he left off and scored 42 and 14 rebounds in his return. This is a very encouraging sign moving forward for the Sixers. Tobias Harris is also back in action, further bolstering this already deep roster. The Sixers, when healthy, are one of the better teams in the NBA and led the East before the injury bug hit. 

The Magic, meanwhile, are a bad team with Anthony and Bamba. Without them, things can get ugly. The Magic last won a game against the Knicks and have only one victory in their last 10 games. So, while they will need a miracle to win this game, they do have a good shot at covering this massive 14.0 point spread. 

Here are the odds for this Eastern Conference showdown courtesy of WynnBET: 

Magic vs. Sixers Odds, Spread, and Total

Spread:

• Magic: +14.0 (-110)
• Sixers: -14.0 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Magic: +800
• Sixers: -1400

Total: 

• 207.0 (Over -110/Under -110)

Magic vs. Sixers Prediction and Pick

The Injury issues that have derailed the Magic’s season came at a time when the team was facing off against some of the best talents in the NBA. The Bucks, Bull, and Nets have all beaten up on the shorthanded Magic and tonight it will be Philly's turn. 

With the successful return of Embiid and Harris from injuries, the Sixers are just bout back to full strength. This is important because, as a fully healthy team, the 76ers are dangerous. 

The Magic, meanwhile, are more of a danger to themselves than they are to others. They are not only losing straight up but are also 8-13 against the spread this season. If Bamba sits, which is looking very possible, it would leave the Magic vulnerable to another big night from Embiid. 

The Sixers, however, are not exactly setting the world on fire right now and are 0-4 ATS in their last four games at home and 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 overall. The Magic are not a team I am pumped about backing, they are not great and appear to be getting worse. But, Philly is still trying to find their footing after their injury issues and just lost to the Timberwolves at home. Ill take the points. 

Pick: Orlando Magic +14.0 (-110)