Knicks vs. Magic    (won)

This is the first game Banchero will miss. Banchero’s absence will cost Orlando shot creation in tough situations and his ability to draw fouls, but the redistribution of ball handling in his first absence could also be an opportunity for the Magic to keep the game close. Franz Wagner, Bane, and Suggs can still organize the offense, and Orlando is capable of adjusting its style of play.

Franz Wagner is expected to get more opportunities to handle the ball and attack off the dribble, Bane can increase pick-and-roll plays with Carter, and Suggs can take on ball advancement and connective duties. The offense that was originally built around Banchero can be changed to be initiated from multiple positions in turn. The Magic can speed up ball movement and increase off-ball cuts, and their offense has a chance to flow more smoothly. The Knicks will need to adjust their on-ball and help defense based on the actual distribution of ball handling; the changes after Banchero’s first absence may create some opportunities for the Magic. Other players will get more shot attempts and ball-handling responsibilities, and they also have motivation to perform.

Last season, Banchero missed 10 consecutive games due to a groin injury, and the team went 7-3 while averaging 122.3 points per game; in the previous 12 games, they were 6-6 and averaged 116.6 points. The Magic actually performed better without Banchero on the court. The Knicks have also started with two straight losses, and Bridges shot a combined 2-of-16 in the first two games; their offensive execution has not yet entered a stable state.

Banchero’s absence will inflate the Knicks’ handicap, but in reality, Banchero’s absence does not have much negative impact on the Magic’s immediate competitiveness.

Magic -2