The Houston Rockets (8–3) will host the Orlando Magic (7–6) on Sunday in an important early-season test for both teams. Both teams have won three games in a row coming into this contest, but only one of them can get a fourth win in a row here. Before tip-off from Space City, you will find my Magic vs Rockets prediction below.
Our Magic vs Rockets Pick
- Pick: Orlando Magic +7.5
- Confidence: ★★★★☆
Game Snapshot
- Matchup: Orlando Magic @ Houston Rockets
- Date & Time: Sunday, November 16, 2025, 7:00 PM ET
- Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
- Broadcast: NBA League Pass
Key Storylines
Injuries are impacting both sides. The Rockets will be without Tari Eason (leg) and Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle), while the Magic will be without Paolo Banchero (groin) and Mo Wagner. The absence of Banchero is especially significant for Orlando, as he’s been a key contributor this season, averaging over 21 points, nearly 9 boards, and 4 assists per game. Houston is navigating without Eason but leaning on its core of Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün.
Both of these teams are very good on defense and they will try to continue dominating on that end of the floor in this matchup. These teams are both giving up under 115 points per game on the season. The team that can find a way to score against a quality defense consistently here will likely come away with the win in Houston.
Head-to-Head & Betting Trends
- This is the first meeting of the season between Orlando and Houston.
- The Magic are 5-8 against the spread going into this game.
- The Rockets are 8-3 against the spread so far this season.
- The over has gone 9-1-1 in Rockets games this year.
- Orlando has gone under the total 7 times in 13 games.
Best Player Props to Watch
| Player | Prop |
|---|---|
| Alperen Şengün | Over 21.5 points |
| Kevin Durant | Over 25.5 points |
| Franz Wagner | Over 24.5 points |
Magic vs Rockets Model Projection
Score Projection: Rockets 111 – Magic 106
Win Probability: Rockets 70%, Magic 30%
Final Thoughts
The Rockets should be able to win at home against a banged-up Magic team. But I am going to take the points with Orlando on the road here. These defenses are both very good and that should lead to a low-scoring game where the final score is tight enough for the underdog to get the job done here. As long as Durant doesn’t go off for a huge number, Orlando will cover regardless of who wins the game.
