The Magic made one of the biggest moves of the offseason, trading multiple assets and veteran players to acquire Desmond Bane from the Grizzlies. John Schuhmann, the senior stats analyst for NBA.com, breaks down how Bane can impact Orlando’s offense.
Using a film study approach, Schuhmann displays Bane’s strength and how he can blend with Orlando’s roster. Bane should help the Magic get more easy buckets on the break, increase off-the-ball movement and provide more off-the-catch opportunities for star forwards Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
We have more from the Eastern Conference:
- The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson takes a deep dive into the Heat’s asset management over the past decade, breaking them down into regrettable, commendable and defensible decisions. Jackson notes that the reason why the franchise hasn’t hoarded first-round picks is that it would go against their philosophy of never tanking or intentionally taking steps back with the hope of a brighter future. Their yearly goals also include trying to win as many games as possible every season, even if the roster isn’t championship-caliber.
- Orlando Sentinel Mike Bianchi opines that the Magic must resurrect their rivalry with the Heat. The Southeast Division foes play against each other on opening night and Bianchi urges Orlando fans to muster up passion and hatred toward their in-state opponent.
- The Bulls have promoted Austin Dufault to director of player development and Isiah Price to coordinator of player development, K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network tweets. Dufault was an assistant coach with the Pistons from 2021-23.
I love the look of this Orlando squad. Versatility defensively, can switch everything. Guards can guard much bigger guys and bigs switch well and guard smaller guys. Got scoring, depth and room for improvement from within. I expect improvement this season then it’s game on going forward as far as legit contender goes. Crap season health wise last season. Same as everyone health is vital to their legit chances.
Heat just think everyone wants to sign with them because of Miami, but Riley is a liability.
Hahaha what? Based on?
Orlando is for real. They are deep too. They still have to show it. Potential and good moves don’t mean anything. If you don’t win. With Celtics and Pacers down this year. Magic have a real shot at top 4 in East. Magic are still a young team growing. So could do even better. They need more scoring. Bane should provide that. Their bench has to step up too. Magic are better than Heat. But Heat youngsters are due to step up. A Magic vs Heat rivalry could push Heat to do better. Heat can be a playoff team also.
The East is Cavs, Knicks, Sixers to me.