Magic vs. Pelicans: Injury Woes and Play‑In Stakes Shape Sunday Showdown

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The New Orleans Pelicans have stumbled, dropping two consecutive home games to Cleveland and Houston after a seven‑game winning streak that had them soaring in the standings. The loss adds pressure as the team eyes its final regular‑season home game.

Health Advantage for Orlando

Orlando arrives in New Orleans with its “Big 3”—Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane—finally healthy and playing together for the first time in months. The Magic enjoy a clear health edge, while the Pelicans will be without two starters, forcing coach Willie Jones to dig into the bench.

Pelicans’ Bench Call‑Up

Micah Peavy, Jordan Hawkins and Jordan Poole are expected to see extended minutes. Their contributions could be pivotal, but the deficit on the floor may be too much to overcome.

Play‑In Implications

For the Magic, a win is essential to keep their play‑in hopes alive; they sit two games behind the Toronto Raptors for the No. 6 seed and cannot afford another slip. A loss would likely dash any realistic path to the postseason.

What’s at Stake

Sunday’s contest will determine whether the Pelicans can end their slump on a high note and whether the Magic can stay afloat in the tight Eastern race. With both teams dealing with contrasting injury narratives, the game promises high drama in a pivotal moment of the 2025‑26 season.