The Orlando Magic have surged to a 3-0 record following the trade deadline, recording victories against the Brooklyn Nets, Utah Jazz, and Milwaukee Bucks. As they prepare to face the Bucks once more, the team is aiming to secure its longest winning streak of the season. The Bucks will be without guard Ryan Rollins due to a foot injury, and they are also missing star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is looking to return from a calf strain before the end of February.
Currently leading the Southeast Division as the All-Star break approaches, the Magic are looking to sweep their season series against a Bucks team that has struggled lately. They triumphed over the Jazz 120-117 on Saturday, helped by Utah’s unexpected tanking efforts.
Milwaukee has faced challenges, losing six of its last seven games before managing to beat the Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, and Indiana Pacers during a recent home stretch. Their offensive output surged in a high-scoring 141-137 overtime win on February 4, but they showcased their defensive skills by restricting Indiana to just 99 points in their latest game.
The Magic are eager to capitalize on Antetokounmpo’s absence, as he will be sitting out for the eighth consecutive game. This presents Orlando the opportunity to chase their fourth straight win, which would mark their longest winning streak of the season. The Magic have performed well at home, boasting a 17-8 record, and they are 19-17 against Eastern Conference teams. Conversely, Milwaukee struggles on the road with a 9-18 record and has a 16-18 mark against Eastern foes.
In terms of game details, the matchup is set for Wednesday, February 11, at 7:10 p.m. EST at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. Fans can tune in on the FanDuel Sports Network and listen via local radio stations.
Historically, the Bucks lead the all-time series against the Magic 76-57, but the Magic have had recent success, winning consecutive matchups against Milwaukee for the first time since the 2013-14 season.
Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley expressed optimism about his team’s performance, noting the importance of playing the right way, saying, “I believe that if you’re playing the right way, you feel it, and I think that’s more than momentum. That’s just knowing you’re doing the right thing at the right time, playing the right type of basketball.”
With the All-Star break on the horizon, the Magic hope to carry their momentum into the break, while the Bucks are looking to regain their footing amidst injury challenges.