Magic vs. Spurs GameThread

One of the teams in tonight's contest is familiar with their view at the top of their respective conference. The other one, at least lately, well - not so much.

The Orlando Magic, who have managed to win three of their first four games in the '17-'18 season, are set to host the Western Conference leading San Antonio Spurs.

The Magic have found success this season behind their offense, which is scoring on average 119.0 points per game, third in the league behind the Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors. The Magic roll into Friday's contest with three players averaging over 20 points per game (Aaron Gordon - 27.5, Nikola Vucevic - 23.8, Evan Fournier - 21.5).

However, the Magic will be tested greatly Friday night by the Spurs and their ability to rebound the basketball. San Antonio ranks in the Top-3 in the NBA in offensive rebounding, total rebounds, and rebounding differential. If Orlando is to find success in the Amway Center tonight, it will be by boxing out and grabbing available boards.

Orlando will be challenged with the task of slowing down forward LaMarcus Aldridge, who has seemingly returned to his All-Star form in his second season with the Spurs. Aldridge is averaging 26.0 points and 8.8 rebounds on the season.

San Antonio last played Wednesday night in Miami where they secured a comfortable 117-100 victory over the Heat. Tonight, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich will be gunning for career win number 1,155, which would place him in a tie with Phil Jackson for sixth on the NBA's all-time coaching wins list.

The Magic have been off since Tuesday night when they came back in dramatic fashion at home against the Brooklyn Nets.

San Antonio will be without the services of starters Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker. Orlando will again be without Elfrid Payton.

Register all your pre-game and in-game comments in this GameThread. Enjoy!

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