The Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets are set to face off for the second time this weekend at the Barclays Center. Orlando took care of business in the first matchup on Friday, securing a dominant 123-100 victory. The Magic have been on an impressive run, entering this game with a 14-7 record, including an outstanding 11 wins in their last 12 games.

Meanwhile, the Nets sit at 9-11 for the season and had their three-game winning streak snapped by the Magic on Friday. Brooklyn will be looking to bounce back tonight. What makes Orlando’s recent success even more remarkable is that they’ve been playing without their star player, Paolo Banchero, for quite some time. Their ability to thrive despite his absence has surprised many, and they’ll be aiming to continue their strong play as they face off against the Nets once again.

Although their offense has struggled without Banchero, they have picked up the slack with their excellent defensive prowess. Franz Wagner has stepped up for the team and has been great averaging 23.6 points. In addition, he has been dishing out great passes and has a team-high 5.8 assists.

As for the Nets, their loss showed everyone how things can go south when they are without, Dennis Schroder. Well, the good news is he is back with the team but, they still have several players on the injury report. Let’s get the latest updates from both sides and learn who’s in and who’s out for tonight’s Matchup.

Magic vs Nets Injury Reports

Orlando Magic Injury Report

The Magic will have to suit up without Paolo Banchero for the 17th consecutive game with a torn right oblique and it will be a few weeks before he’s re-evaluated. In the five games, Banchero played he averaged 29 points and was a real difference-maker, his injury has been a real blow to the gut for Orlando.

They will also be without Gary Harris who picked up a left hamstring strain in Monday’s matchup with Charlotte. Furthermore, according to coach Jamahl Mosley, he is “progressing slowly“.

Brooklyn Nets Injury Report

On the other hand, Brooklyn has a real injury problem, the likes of Cam Thomas, Dorian Finney-Smith, Jaylen Martin, and more are all on the injury report. Thomas is suffering from a left hamstring strain and Smith is out with an ankle injury. Furthermore, Jaylen Martin is out due to a right knee contusion and will miss a couple of weeks.

Bojan Bogdanovic has been ruled out of the game due to a foot injury he is still recovering from. The other players on the report are Noah Clowney who is out for two weeks after being diagnosed with a left ankle sprain and lastly, and Day’Ron Sharpe is ruled out due to a hamstring problem.

Magic vs Nets Depth Charts

This is how the two teams stack up against each other and also their probable lineups for tonight.

Orlando Magic Depth Chart

Brooklyn Nets Depth Chart

To conclude, The Magic are clear favorites for the matchup tonight, especially after Friday’s NBA Cup victory. Furthermore, Dennis Schroder’s availability will be a huge boost to the Nets as they will look to bounce back but they still miss Cam Thomas and also another starter in Dorian Finney-Smith which just tilts the equation in Orlando’s favor.

However, the game will be much closer this time around. Who do you see coming out on top? Tell us in the comment section below!