Magic vs Hawks preview: Atlanta hosts Victor Oladipo, Orlando

The Atlanta Hawks are back at Philips Arena after a 1-2 road trip and look to get back to .500 when they face the Orlando Magic. Atlanta defeated the Sacramento Kings and suffered two point losses against the Lakers and the Nuggets. Offensively the Hawks appear to be finding their groove but their defense, particularly from the perimeter, is still a work in progress.

The timing is good for Atlanta who are catching the Magic on the second night of a back-to-back after a disappointing 91-89 home loss to the Boston Celtics. Arron Afflalo led the way against the Celtics with 23 points and upped his team leading average to 19.5 on the season. Nikola Vucevic added 14 points and 13 rebounds to continue his torrid start to the season as well. Vucevic is averaging 17.2 points and 13.2 rebounds through six games.

Victor Oladipo is six games into his rookie season and is averaging 12.5 points and 3.5 assists off the bench for the Magic. He finished with nine points on 3-of-12 shooting against the Celtics on Friday. Oladipo has been playing a lot of point guard for the Magic and a potential matchup with Hawks rookie Dennis Schröder should be fun.

Atlanta will look to keep Paul Millsap rolling who is averaging 27 points and 10.5 rebounds over his last two games. Al Horford will have to try and contain Vucevic while the Hawks' perimeter defense will be tested by Affalo and Jameer Nelson. Atlanta would be best served to establish their tempo early and be engaged and focused on the defensive end. This Magic team is young and athletic but they will make mistakes and will turn the ball over. However, if they get into a rhythm they have shown that they can be a tough opponent despite their youth.

Tip off from Atlanta is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. but there will be no local television broadcast. NBA League Pass subscribers will be able to watch the game via Fox Sports Florida. The game will be available locally on the radio at 92.9 FM "The Game" with veteran broadcaster Steve Holman on the call.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Saturday, November 9, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Philips Arena

TV: No Local Broadcast, NBA League Pass

Radio: 92.9 FM "The Game"