Things haven’t gone as planned in Orlando. The Magic were expected to make major improvements this season under new head coach Frank Vogel. The additions of Serge Ibaka and Bismack Biyombo were supposed to take the Magic out of the rebuilding phase and elevate the team’s defense.
Entering Saturday, Orlando is tied with Golden state for 15th in the league in defensive efficiency this season, up slightly from 17th last year. The lack of drastic improvement on the defensive end, coupled with the team’s offensive struggles (27th in the league in offensive efficiency), has led to a ho-hum 6-7 record.
As big of a disappointment as it has been for the Magic so far, it’s not inconceivable that they turn it around. New players need time to learn how to play with each other (just ask the 2010/11 Heatles). New systems take time to master. Combining both is asking for a delay in winning results.
That leads us to tonight’s topic: Can the Magic rebound and make the playoffs this season? If not, what should the franchise do to better position itself for a playoff run?
Their frontcourt is overcrowded and the franchise might be better off shipping out some of its depth for a scorer on the wing. A trade after December 15 might make the most sense, as many players who signed this offseason will then be eligible to be included in a trade.
Instead of making major moves, perhaps a smaller adjustment should be made, like reducing Jeff Green’s minutes. The forward is sporting a career low 9.3 player efficiency rating and the team has been outscored by 92 points in the 260 minutes he’s played this season.
Should this team make any more changes or should it trust that the changes it has already made will pan out? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below. We look forward to what you have to say!
I don’t see a light at the end of the tunnel right now for the Magic, and I don’t know what else they can possibly do. The Ibaka trade was curious and doesn’t really make them any better. Hezonja appears to be a largely wasted pick, and Gordon hasn’t taken the next step.
it’s the eastern conference,yes they are playoff contenders. a .500 record puts u in contention in the east,there’s even room for improvement here
My problem with the Magic is that they don’t have a superstar (or even an all-star) in a superstar’s league. I would say abother losing season might be a blessing in disguise for this team, as it would enable them to get a high pick in what seems to be a deep and talented draft class.