Written by Nate Hill.
The Orlando Magic are coming off a strong offseason, improving their team both offensively and defensively.
The Magic finished last season with an even record of 41-41, winning just half of their games. Although they had a less-than-stellar record, they were able to secure the 7th seed in the East, earning them a spot in the play-in tournament. They would go on to beat the Atlanta Hawks in the play-in and then lose to the Celtics in 5 games during the first round of the playoffs.
The Magic had a lot of work to do going into the off-season and made some great moves. They started the off-season strong when they traded Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four 1st-round picks to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Desmond Bane. While that is a large trade package for just one player, Desmond Bane can tremendously improve the team. Bane brings the team much-needed 3-point shooting, along with solid defense and efficient scoring.
The Magic also signed Tyus Jones, a solid point guard who has shown he is more than capable of providing great passing and averaging 10 points a night on efficient shooting.
While the Magic didn’t change their roster much, they still have very talented players returning from last season, like Paolo Banchero, Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, and many more amazing young players.
The Magic are looking to change the dynamic of the team this year by increasing the team’s scoring and 3-point shooting. Last year, the team finished last in 3-point percentage, shooting only 31.8% well below the league average of 36%.
The Magic are in win-now mode, with the young core they have built up, starring Paolo Banchero, they hope to compete for a championship in the near future. Right now, it’s far too early to assume the team is gonna be a top contender, but based on how the Eastern Conference looks, not many teams are gonna put up a fight to stop them from being in the playoffs.
The Orlando Magic open the season at home against the Miami Heat on October 22nd, where they hope to show off their improved roster and just how good they can be.
