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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Orlando Magic prepare themselves to host the Chicago Bulls at the Kia Center tonight in one of their crucial matches with the playoffs closing in. As the Magic remain an inch away from securing their playoff spot, it remains for the Bulls to pick up a pace heading into the play-ins. In the run for essential goals, the focus now lingers upon the availability of their key players: Alex Caruso and Jonathan Isaac, one of whom carries better news.

A few hours ahead of the game, Orlando Magic’s media personality, Wendell Epps took to X to share the Injury Report of both the teams. The post revealed Magic’s Jonathan Isaac was out of the report after he sat out the last game against the Hornets due to a back spasm while Caleb Houstan is questionable due to a right ankle sprain. On the other hand, the Bulls have Coby White and Alex Carus on their list of ‘questionable’.

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Alex Caruso the defensive stalwart of the team injured his ankle during the last game against the Knicks. Entering the game, Caruso was already heeding his left ankle sprain, which now seems to have intensified his condition. This could mean, the Bulls might lose out on their starter who averages 7.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists against the Magic.

Coby White, a dynamic scorer for the team has been facing some issues with his ankle as well. He has been superb off the bench for the Bulls with his ability to create spaces and score 3-pointers. If both of them miss out, we might see Ayo Dosunmu and Zach LaVine having increased game time.

For Magic’s part, Isaac has had injuries throughout his career but when he is healthy, he is a force to be reckoned with. His presence on the court disrupts the opponent’s plan with his height and shot-blocking ability. But Magic will likely play without Caleb Houstan who is questionable because of his right ankle sprain.

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Predicted Lineups: Magic vs Bulls

Orlando Magic currently holds 4th position in the Eastern Conference, winning 6 of their last 10 games. Since January 30th the Magics have posted second best record in the NBA with 21-9 which is 2nd overall in the league. The team has scored points at an average of 110.6 which is 25th overall in the league. They have been defensively strong conceding only 108.4 points per game which is 4th overall in the league. This is how they could line up: Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Gary Harris, Jonathan Isaac, and Jalen Suggs.

As for the Chicago Bulls. they hold 9th position in the Eastern Conference, winning 5 of their last 10 games. They have scored points at an average of 111.9 points per game and conceded points at an average of 113.4 points. Currently, they are looking for a pace heading into the play-ins and this is how the Bulls could line up: DeMar DeRozan, Alex Caruso, Ayo Dosunmu, Javonte Green, Nikola Vucevic.

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With specified goals on the list, it will be a matchup to watch between the Bulls’ Offense and Magic’s defense.

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