Orlando Magic vs Houston Rockets – Preview & Prediction (Feb. 26, 2026)
Game Preview
The Magic come into this one playing solid basketball, having won six of their last eight games. They’ve grabbed a two-game winning streak and sit around the middle of the Eastern Conference, with a real chance to climb higher if they keep this momentum. Their defense has been the steadying force all season, though the offense has struggled at times—especially with Franz Wagner sidelined and Jalen Suggs dealing with injuries.
In their most recent outing the Magic pulled out a 110-109 road win in a tight finish, with Paolo Banchero carrying much of the scoring load and Wendell Carter Jr. chipping in nicely on the boards. That kind of effort shows they can grind out close games even when their shooting isn’t consistent.
The Rockets enter off a strong stretch as well, winning six of their last ten and coming out of the All-Star break sharper than before. They’ve picked up convincing wins against solid opponents and currently sit near the top of the Western Conference. Houston’s attack is one of the most productive in the league, and they’re efficient on both ends—scoring and defending at high levels.
Matchup-wise, this shapes up as defense versus offense. Orlando will try to slow the pace, clog the paint and lean on physical team defense. Houston, meanwhile, has the firepower to punish mistakes and stretch the floor, so possessions and tempo will be key deciding factors.
Injuries, Matchup Notes and Prediction
Injury news will influence rotations: Franz Wagner is expected to miss the game for Orlando, and Jalen Suggs is listed as questionable. Houston has a few expected absences too—Steven Adams, Fred VanVleet and Jae’Sean Tate are not available, while Amen Thompson and Dorian Finney-Smith are questionable. Availability for these players could change minutes and matchups, especially in the frontcourt.
Head-to-head, Houston has enjoyed recent success against Orlando and owns a multi-game winning streak in the matchup, including a recent overtime victory.
Given Orlando’s tendency to play through defense and slow the game down without Wagner, and Houston’s balanced efficiency on both ends, this one projects to be lower-scoring than many expect. If the Rockets choose to grind possessions and both teams emphasize half-court defense, the total should stay under the posted line.
Tip-off: Thursday, 7:30 p.m. EST, February 26, 2026
Prediction: Under 216.5 points
Confidence: Moderate
