A one-point loss can leave a team with a loud question ringing in its ears. Phoenix fell 116-113 to Golden State on Nov. 2, its third straight defeat, but the Suns showed they can trade punches with a strong opponent. Now Orlando arrives Thursday night with its own problem to solve: How can the Magic create enough offense without Paolo Banchero?

As of Nov. 2, Phoenix stood 1-4 and Orlando was 2-5. Those records make this a key early-season meeting for two teams trying to turn close calls into wins. The Suns play at home, where Devin Booker can set the tempo like a conductor leading a fast, noisy band. He is averaging 23 points and more than five assists, which means he is not only finding his own shots. He is also creating open looks for teammates.

Phoenix scores 112.2 points per game, more than Orlando’s 105.7. The Suns also share the ball well, with 27.6 assists per night. That teamwork will matter against a Magic group built on size and physical defense. Dillon Brooks gives Phoenix a tough wing who can score, defend, and bring energy to every possession. He has started the season hot from three-point range, making nearly 48 percent of his shots from deep. If Orlando sends extra defenders toward Booker, Brooks could find room on the outside.

The paint, the area close to the basket, brings another important chapter. Starting center Mark Williams remains out, so 7-foot-1 Khaman Maluach has a bigger job. Maluach is still growing into his role, yet his length gives Phoenix a chance to block shots, grab rebounds, and finish passes near the rim. The Suns need him to help against Orlando’s strong big players, especially Wendell Carter Jr. and veteran Nikola Vucevic.

Orlando’s attack will lean heavily on Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane. Wagner leads the Magic with 20.3 points and 7.6 assists per game, showing how often he must score and set up others. In Monday’s loss to Washington, Orlando struggled badly after halftime and managed only nine points in the third quarter. That rough stretch showed why the Magic miss Banchero, who is out until later this month. Bane can help change the picture with his outside shooting, while Wagner can use his size to drive through traffic.

The Magic also need to protect the ball. Their 17.3 turnovers per game give opponents too many extra chances, while Phoenix creates 9.4 steals a night. Anthony Black is listed day-to-day, and Jalen Suggs remains out, so Orlando’s guard depth could be stretched.

Phoenix has its own wounds from a tough start, but its scoring options and home floor give it the clearer path. Booker should guide the Suns through a tight game, with Brooks and Maluach supplying key support. Prediction: Phoenix Suns win.

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