The Orlando Magic enter their April 8, 2025 matchup against the Atlanta Hawks with confidence and momentum on their side as they continue to solidify their place in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Holding a 38-40 record, the Magic have won back-to-back games and currently sit in the 7th seed—a position that, while promising, remains precarious given the tightly packed standings. Head coach Jamahl Mosley has cultivated a disciplined, defense-first identity that has kept Orlando competitive throughout the season, and that commitment to structure has especially paid off at home. The Magic’s ability to limit opponent field goal percentage and force turnovers has been one of their calling cards, allowing them to control tempo and frustrate teams that rely on rhythm and space, like Atlanta. Leading the charge is Paolo Banchero, who continues to blossom into a cornerstone player with his blend of size, skill, and poise. His ability to create off the dribble, draw fouls, and initiate offense from multiple spots on the floor gives the Magic a versatile weapon who can shift matchups and absorb pressure when needed. Supporting Banchero are key pieces like Franz Wagner, who brings intelligent off-ball movement and scoring efficiency, and Jalen Suggs, whose defensive intensity and improved offensive composure have elevated the team’s backcourt presence. Wendell Carter Jr. continues to anchor the paint, providing rim protection and rebounding consistency, while Orlando’s bench has also given timely contributions, particularly in terms of energy, hustle, and secondary scoring. The Magic’s offense isn’t the flashiest in the league, but it’s effective when rooted in strong ball movement, patience, and attacking mismatches.

Against a Hawks team that has struggled defensively, particularly on the perimeter and in transition, the Magic will look to push the pace when opportunities arise while remaining selective and smart in half-court sets. Orlando also enters this game with the motivation of redemption, having lost 112-106 to Atlanta at home earlier in the season. In that game, the Hawks were able to exploit defensive lapses and out-execute the Magic in key moments—a reality Mosley will no doubt remind his players of as they prepare for this crucial rematch. At the Kia Center, the Magic have thrived off the energy of a rejuvenated home crowd that has embraced this young, evolving roster. With playoff implications looming, the team will look to deliver a performance that reflects both urgency and growth, capitalizing on Atlanta’s current struggles to create separation in the standings. If Banchero can continue to lead effectively, and Orlando’s defense plays to its standard by disrupting passing lanes, contesting shots, and limiting second-chance points, the Magic will put themselves in prime position to close out strong. This is more than a game for Orlando—it’s a tone-setter for how they approach the final stretch of the season and a barometer for how ready they are to compete under pressure. A win at home not only boosts morale but could also be the difference between a play-in scramble and a direct path into the postseason.