The Orlando Magic and Miami Heat renew their in-state rivalry in a preseason clash that carries more meaning than usual. The Magic, buoyed by offseason growth and improved depth, aim to build chemistry before the regular season, while the Heat continue to tinker with rotations amid key injuries. With both teams trending in different directions, this matchup offers a clear test of Orlando’s emerging identity against Miami’s experience-driven resilience.
Match Preview
Orlando enters this game with momentum after a strong preseason start, powered by a rejuvenated frontcourt and better offensive rhythm. Paolo Banchero looks sharper and more assertive, spearheading a balanced attack that now benefits from added floor spacing courtesy of Moritz Wagner, who re-signed this summer. The Magic have focused on quick ball movement and attacking early in transition—an approach designed to exploit mismatches before defenses settle.
Miami, on the other hand, are navigating turbulence. Tyler Herro’s foot surgery sidelines their primary perimeter scorer, while Bam Adebayo continues to anchor a defense that’s carried them through inconsistency elsewhere. The addition of Davion Mitchell, who re-signed on a two-year deal, gives Miami extra toughness and defensive coverage on the perimeter, but the Heat still lack the offensive punch that made them a postseason threat in past years.
This preseason meeting might be unofficial, but the tone will feel competitive. Orlando’s athleticism and interior control face off against Miami’s structured, gritty defensive schemes—a contrast that often defines their battles.
Team Form & Recent Results
Orlando Magic – Last 5 Games (Preseason & Late 2024/25): W–L–W–W–L
- Points For: 114.2
- Points Against: 108.6
- Strength: Rebounding & pace in transition
- Weakness: Three-point consistency
Miami Heat – Last 5 Games (Preseason & Late 2024/25): L–W–L–L–W
- Points For: 109.8
- Points Against: 112.4
- Strength: Defensive structure & half-court discipline
- Weakness: Scoring droughts without Herro or Lowry
Orlando have scored over 110 points in four of their last five outings, showing marked improvement offensively. Miami, by contrast, have struggled to maintain tempo, with half-court stagnation limiting their scoring opportunities.
Head-to-Head Record
The Sunshine State rivalry remains tight. Over the last 10 meetings, Miami hold a narrow 6–4 edge, but Orlando have won two of the last three at the Kia Center. Last season’s contests averaged 218 total points, often decided in crunch time.
Lineups, Injuries & Rotations
Orlando Magic (Projected Starters):
- Jalen Suggs
- Franz Wagner
- Paolo Banchero
- Moritz Wagner
- Wendell Carter Jr.
Bench: Cole Anthony, Jonathan Isaac, Gary Harris, Joe Ingles
Injury Update: None significant. Team expected to be at full strength.
Miami Heat (Projected Starters):
- Davion Mitchell
- Norman Powell
- Jimmy Butler
- Nikola Jović
- Bam Adebayo
Bench: Duncan Robinson, Precious Achiuwa, Caleb Martin, Josh Richardson
Injury Update: Tyler Herro (foot surgery) out; Kyle Lowry limited minutes for conditioning; Kevin Love probable.
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Orlando Magic
Head coach Jamahl Mosley emphasizes pace and controlled aggression. Expect Orlando to attack early through Banchero’s driving ability and inside-out sets involving Wagner. Their ability to stretch Miami’s defense—forcing Adebayo and Jović to rotate outside the paint—will be crucial.
Key Players:
- Paolo Banchero: Looks in midseason form, averaging over 21 PPG in preseason. His shot creation and improved efficiency make him a matchup nightmare.
- Franz Wagner: Provides two-way stability and spacing on the wing.
- Moritz Wagner: Offers inside presence, energy, and key rebounding against Bam’s physical play.
Miami Heat
Miami’s approach remains defense-first under Erik Spoelstra. With Herro out, offensive creativity will fall to Jimmy Butler and Norman Powell, while Davion Mitchell focuses on containment. The Heat will attempt to slow the pace, forcing Orlando into set plays and minimizing transition damage.
Key Players:
- Bam Adebayo: Must dominate the glass and keep Orlando’s bigs in check.
- Jimmy Butler: Still the emotional leader, even in preseason—his tempo and shot selection will dictate Miami’s scoring rhythm.
- Norman Powell: Key scoring outlet from the perimeter in Herro’s absence.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
Moneyline: Orlando 1.60 | Miami 2.40
Spread: Orlando –5.5
Total Points: Over/Under 222.5
Smart Angles:
- Orlando to Win (-5.5 spread): Home edge and superior depth make them the value pick.
- Over 222.5 Points: Both teams experimenting with pace and open rotations may lead to higher scoring.
- Player Props:
- Banchero Over 21.5 points
- Wagner Over 7.5 rebounds
- Butler Over 18.5 points
- Adebayo Over 9.5 rebounds
Featured Snippet (Quick Facts):
- Venue: Kia Center, Orlando, Florida
- Tip-off: 7:00 PM ET / 23:00 UTC
- Competition: NBA Preseason 2025
- Broadcast: Bally Sports Florida, NBA League Pass
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Catch Orlando Magic vs Miami Heat live on Bally Sports Florida or stream globally on NBA League Pass.
Tip-off: 7:00 PM ET / 23:00 UTC / 20:00 PT.
Prediction: Orlando Magic vs Miami Heat, NBA Preseason 2025
Orlando’s improved chemistry, depth, and size advantage should prove decisive against a short-handed Miami side. The Heat’s experience will keep them competitive early, but without Herro’s scoring, they may struggle to keep pace if Orlando’s transition game clicks. Expect Banchero and Wagner to dominate inside-out play and seal the win late.
Final Prediction: Orlando Magic 115–106 Miami Heat
Best Bet: Orlando –5.5 Spread
Alternative Value: Over 222.5 Total Points
Orlando’s youth, versatility, and spacing give them the edge over a Miami team still searching for offensive balance. Expect the Magic to control tempo and finish preseason strong at home.
