Ausar Thompson's production is returning. The young guys were in the dog house during that 28-game losing streak, but have recently seen more minutes similar to the beginning of the season. He's recorded a 20+ PRA in 6 of his last 7 games. The Sportsline model makes the number 22.2.

This might be a long slog to the end of the season for the Pistons, who began the post-All-Star break portion of the schedule with a limp effort vs. the Pacers on Thursday. Orlando already has a couple of double-digit wins (and covers) over Detroit, including recently on February 4, and the Magic look very refreshed on Thursday when taking down the Cavs (albeit minus Donovan Mitchell),and the latest big effort from F Franz Wagner (22 points & 7 boards). Play Magic

Paolo Banchero has followed up his rookie of the year campaign with an excellent sophomore season and had improved in nearly every statistical category for an Orlando team that is six games above .500 and have won seven of their last ten. Paolo is playing winning basketball and at just 21 years old still has plenty of untapped potential. This is a great spot for the recent All-Star selection against a Pistons team that is a league worst 8-47. The Pistons surrender the most points to opposing PFs over their last 15 games. Look for Paolo to have his way with an over matched Detroit front court.