The Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic meet Wednesday to open their 2026-27 NBA seasons. Tip from Kia Center in Orlando, Florida, is set for 7 p.m. ET. Let's analyze NBA odds around the Hawks vs. Magic odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.
2025-26 season series: Hawks won 4-0
The Hawks, who traded franchise icon G Trae Young in January, finished last season sixth in the Eastern Conference at 46-36. They were ousted by the eventual NBA Champion New York Knicks in the first round. Atlanta's main offseason move was a 3-team trade that brought in G Lu Dort and G Ryan Nembhard and sent F Zaccharie Risacher to the Dallas Mavericks. Behind star F Jalen Johnson, expectations are high in Atlanta.
The Magic have been consistent,
winning between 47 and 41 games in each of their last 3 seasons. They finished 45-37 a year ago and were bounced by the Detroit Pistons in a 7-game first-round playoff series. There weren't a lot of new faces added this offseason, but the Magic did bring back C Nikola Vucevic, who found his footing with Orlando earlier in his career. They also hired coach Sean Sweeney to captain the organization. Former No. 1 overall pick Paolo Banchero (22.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, 5.2 assists per game) is the main weapon for Orlando, which contend agains for a playoff spot.
Watch the NBA on Fubo!
Hawks at Magic odds
Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 7:32 p.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Hawks +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Magic -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
- Against the spread (ATS): Hawks +3.5 (-115) | Magic -3.5 (-105)
- Over/Under (O/U): 235.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)
Hawks at Magic key injuries
Hawks
(Not yet submitted -- below was for Friday's game)
- F Mouhamed Gueye (foot) out
Magic
- G Anthony Black (ankle) out
- F Jonathan Isaac (knee) out
- F Noah Penda (hamstring) out
For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.
Hawks at Magic picks and predictions
Prediction
Magic 111, Hawks 109
Moneyline
PASS.
While both sides are playable here, the Hawks (+120) are getting enough points to prefer a play on the spread, while the Magic (-145) are a tad too expensive. Look below for better value.
Against the spread
BET HAWKS +3.5 (-115).
The Hawks did more to upgrade their roster this offseason, bringing in a defensive-minded Dort, who will help to limit Magic G Desmond Bane. Atlanta also performed well in away games a season ago, going 24-20 ATS on the road. It annihilated Orlando last season, winning all 4 contests, with 3 of those coming by double figures.
The Magic have regressed defensively in the last 2 seasons, going from a relative defensive rating of -4.9 (2024-25 season) to one of just -1.5 (2025-26 season). Adding the aging Vucevic won't fix those woes, and with a new coach, the team meshing with the new system could take more time.
Back HAWKS +3.5 (-115).
Over/Under
BET UNDER 235.5 (-110).
These teams were both solid defensively a season ago, and with some early-season rust possible, this total is way too high to justify. The Hawks (112.9) ranked 10th in defensive rating last season while the Magic (113.6) sat 13th.
While Atlanta liked to push the pace, that hasn't been Orlando's style over the past few seasons, and the home side should slow the tempo and limit scoring opportunities. Take UNDER 235.5 (-110).
Betting odds calculator
For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Follow SportsbookWire on X at SportsBookWire and on Facebook.
Access more NBA coverage:
HoopsHype | Celtics Wire | Lakers Wire | Nets Wire | Rockets Wire | Sixers Wire | Thunder Wire | Warriors Wire | Rookie Wire | List Wire
This article originally appeared on Sportsbook Wire: Atlanta Hawks at Orlando Magic odds, picks and predictions
Advertiser disclosure: USA TODAY may earn a commission when you sign up through links on this page. Commissions never influence our editorial coverage or rankings. Offers and odds were accurate at publication and are subject to change; terms apply — see the operator’s site. This is general information, not betting, legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, USA TODAY is not liable for losses arising from your use of it.
Must be 21+ (18+ where permitted). Sports betting and casino gaming are not legal everywhere; complying with the laws where you are located is your responsibility. Gamble only with funds you can afford to lose. Gambling problem? Help is available 24/7 — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET. State helplines and responsible gaming resources.
