ORLANDO, Fla. (Interstat) — Two of the Eastern and Western Conference’s ascending teams meet Thursday night when the Houston Rockets visit the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. The Rockets (35-21) enter with the better overall record, but the Magic (31-26) have been formidable at home and are riding momentum from a dramatic 110-109 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. Paolo Banchero led that effort with 36 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, continuing an All-Star caliber stretch. Over his last 10 games, the forward is averaging 21.7 points, 7.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists. Houston arrives well-rested after a commanding 125-105 home win over Utah on Monday. Forward Jabari Smith Jr. powered that victory with a season-high 31 points, nine rebounds and three blocks. He has recorded six double-doubles in his last 10 contests, averaging 18.6 points and 8.6 rebounds over that span. This is the second and final regular-season meeting between the teams. Houston won the first matchup 117-113 at home on Nov. 16. The Rockets have won four of their last six games, while Orlando has won seven of its last 10. The game features a contrast in strengths. The Rockets boast a top-10 offense, while the Magic counter with one of the league’s stingiest defenses. Containing Banchero’s versatile scoring and playmaking will be a primary focus for Houston’s defense, anchored by Smith and center Alperen Sengun. Orlando must find an answer for Smith’s efficient inside-outside game and Houston’s balanced attack, which saw Amen Thompson add 20 points in the win over Utah. Houston is a 1.5-point road favorite, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, with an over/under set at 215.5 points. The Rockets begin a two-game Florida trip, heading to Miami on Saturday. The Magic open a three-game homestand, hosting Detroit on Sunday.