Magic vs 76ers: NBA Cup Preview & Betting Insights

Orlando Magic vs Philadelphia 76ers: NBA Cup Showdown

The Orlando Magic (10-8) and Philadelphia 76ers (9-7) clash in a crucial NBA Cup group stage matchup on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. Tipoff is set for 8:00 PM ET at Philadelphia's Xfinity Mobile Arena, with the game airing live on NBC. This East Group B contest carries high stakes for both teams, particularly for the Sixers facing elimination with a 0-2 record.

Key Storylines

Key players Desmond Bane (Magic) and Franz Wagner (Magic) in action during a recent game. - Image from https://tse4.mm.bing.net/th/id/OIP.D3P74KuPr6jcJDq2D4DtNAHaEJ?pid=Api

The Magic arrive as slight favorites (-3.5) despite playing on the road, fueled by a 4-2 surge since Paolo Banchero's injury. Franz Wagner has stepped up as the primary offensive threat, while Desmond Bane continues his elite play, making him a contender for NBA Cup MVP. Philadelphia's fortunes hinge on Tyrese Maxey's scoring explosion – he's averaging 32.7 points in Joel Embiid's absence (knee injury since Nov. 8), including a 54-point career performance.

Betting Preview: Odds & Predictions

Current betting lines favor Orlando:

Spread: Magic -3.5 (-115)
Total: 227.5 points
Moneyline: Magic -170 / 76ers +145

Despite the odds, expert analysis suggests value in backing Philadelphia. The Sixers hold a significant home-court advantage in NBA Cup group play, with trends showing home teams covering 60% of such matchups. Road favorites against .500 opponents in this tournament are just 5-11 ATS (31%), making the Sixers +3.5 (-105) a compelling pick.

"This is becoming a pretty decent sample. We consistently see good home teams perform in the Cup, and that's enough value for me to get in on Philadelphia." - Matt Moore, Action Network

NBA Cup Implications

Atmosphere inside the Wells Fargo Center during a 76ers home game. - Image from https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th/id/OIP.lXug-wLtlFfYB6WZi80sswHaE8?pid=Api

With the Raptors already advancing, this winner-take-all game determines the East Group B's second playoff spot. The Magic control their destiny with a win, while Philadelphia faces immediate tournament elimination. Both teams have managed rotations effectively, with Philadelphia's non-Embiid lineups excelling in transition pace – a key matchup advantage against Orlando's defense.

Where to Bet & Promotions

New bettors can enhance their NBA Cup experience with bet365's offer: use promo code NYPBET to get $150 in bonus bets after a $5 wager on this game (available in AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA).

Final Verdict

Expect a tightly contested battle at the Wells Fargo Center. While Orlando's recent surge is impressive, Philadelphia's home dominance in Cup play and Embiid's looming return timeline tilt the edge toward the Sixers covering the spread. Watch for Maxey's aggressive drives against Wagner's perimeter defense as the key tactical battle.