The Washington Wizards are set to welcome the Orlando Magic on January 7 in a Southeast Division matchup that will highlight two teams at very different points in their seasons. Orlando will come to play the match with playoff ambitions and a stronger record, while Washington continues to focus on development and consistency.
When and where to watch
The game will tip off at 7:00 pm ET at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. Fans in the United States can watch via regional sports networks, with live streaming available on select digital platforms. International viewers can follow the action through NBA League Pass.
Expected starting lineups
Washington is expected to start C.J. McCollum at point guard, joined by Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, Khris Middleton, and rookie centre Alexandre Sarr. The Wizards continue to strike a balance between veteran leadership and young talent as they assess their core for the future.
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Orlando’s projected lineup features Anthony Black at point guard, with Desmond Bane, Tristan da Silva, Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr. rounding out the starting five. The Magic rely heavily on Banchero’s scoring and Carter’s presence in the paint to control games.
Injury report
Washington will arrive without Corey Kispert, Kyshawn George, and Cam Whitmore, which slightly reduces their depth on the wings. Orlando also comes in shorthanded, as Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, and Moritz Wagner remain sidelined, forcing the Magic to lean more on their starters and bench rotation.
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What to expect from the matchup
Orlando will take on Washington as favourites based on form and standings, but their recent road performances have been uneven. Washington, meanwhile, has shown it can score freely at home, even if defensive lapses have hurt them late in games.
If the Wizards can keep turnovers low and stay competitive through the first three quarters, they have a chance to keep the game close.
