NBA playoff races heat up with key matchups today

Today, March 24, several NBA teams will compete as they approach the playoffs. Key matchups include the Orlando Magic taking on the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Indiana Pacers facing the Minnesota Timberwolves. Injuries may affect player availability for these crucial games. The Orlando Magic will host the Los Angeles Lakers at the Kia Center at 7:00 PM ET. The Lakers are slightly favored, aiming to improve from a challenging stretch of games. Both teams have struggled recently but will look to gain momentum. The Magic have multiple players listed as questionable or out, while LeBron James is a key player for the Lakers, listed as probable. The Indiana Pacers and Minnesota Timberwolves will also tip off at 7:00 PM ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Pacers, having a better recent record, face a closely matched Timberwolves team. Both sides are working hard to secure better playoff positions. Later in the evening, the Washington Wizards will take on the Toronto Raptors at 7:00 PM ET at Capital One Arena. The Raptors come in as the favorites, with the Wizards struggling at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Both teams deal with significant injuries that could impact their gameplay. At 7:30 PM ET, the Brooklyn Nets will look to end their tough stretch against the Dallas Mavericks at the Barclays Center. Both teams have been underperforming but still aim for a playoff spot. In the late games, the New Orleans Pelicans will host the Philadelphia 76ers at Smoothie King Center at 8:00 PM ET. Both teams face injury challenges, making this matchup vital for their playoff hopes. The Denver Nuggets will meet the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena at 9:00 PM ET. The Nuggets are favored, while the Bulls are riding a good streak recently. Finally, the Sacramento Kings will play the Boston Celtics at Golden 1 Center at 10:00 PM ET. The Celtics hold a strong position in the standings and will look to continue their winning ways against the Kings. Lastly, the Phoenix Suns will welcome the Milwaukee Bucks at Footprint Center, also at 10:00 PM ET. The Bucks, with a solid performance recently, are looking to capitalize on their current form. All games are available for viewing on the NBA League Pass.