Magic At 76ers Preview: A Bettors Perspective
Jan 30th, 2012 by PJ LaFerla
Betting Line:
Orlando Magic (+5.5)
Philadelphia 76ers (-5.5)
Over/Under 179.5
Game Time 7:05 EST
Six teams in the Eastern Conference have winning records and two of them square off tonight as the Orlando Magic visit the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia for a matchup against the 76ers. Before I get started with my analysis on this game, I must point out that I have now hit my last three out of four predictions and continue my dominance since I started writing this column, earlier in January. You can always contact me directly at PJ@sportsinput.com for assistance picking winners…consistently.
GAME ANALYSIS:
For the Orlando Magic (12-8) one thing matters to them, and that is ninety points. All eights of their losses have come when they have scored fewer than ninety. Furthermore, they own a record of 0-8 against the spread in those games. As I always say, research and analysis will give you the best shot of winning wagers, because there are so many factors that need to be taken into consideration; but with the Magic thus far, it’s obvious it only comes down to one. The question is can their opponent hold them under their threshold to ensure they will lose and not cover the spread?
The 76ers (14-6) are clearly one of the surprises in the Eastern conference as well as the entire league. Even more surprising is that they have managed to produce a better ATS record at 15-5 then their overall won/loss performance. A lot is talked about the 76ers and if they are for real, because most of their wins have come against teams with losing records. I say you still need to win those games if you want to contend in this league and the 76ers are getting the job done. However, the true test comes in their next seven games – all of their opponents are the elite of the league, so it is important for them to take advantage of the Magic’s recent struggles, because they have a long road ahead.
WHO TO BET ON?
The 76ers are clearly the team with the momentum in this matchup, but the Magic are a perennial team in this league who is in a bit of a slump. Still, with all their struggles as of late, they are right in the mix, fighting for first place in the Southeast division with Miami and Atlanta. I truly believe the 76ers will be over-matched in this game especially from the center position. Dwight Howard will be difficult to maintain and he will be the go to guy for the Magic all night. The 76ers are athletic and have been fun to watch, but the Magic will grind out this game and come away with a victory and point spread cover.
Make your play on the money line on the Orlando Magic to win this game outright!
SOME OTHER INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THIS GAME:
The Magic arae 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games.
The Magic are 5-2 straight up in its last 7 games on the road.
The 76ers are 11-2 straight up in its last 13 games at home.
The 76ers are 2-8 against the spread in its last 10 games when playing the Magic.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the 76ers last 5 games at home.
PREDICTION:
Magic 95, 76ers 90
PJ Laferla is a practicing freelance writer, professional handicapper, and the founder of SportsInput.com. If you are interested in hiring PJ Laferla for freelance writing or for winning picks against the spread, please submit all inquires to PJ@sportsinput.com.