By Josh CohenJan. 21, 2016
Key Questions
Victor Oladipo (knee) says he is feeling much better and he could be ready to return on Friday against the Hornets. But what does this mean for the Magic’s starting lineup? We haven’t seen Oladipo and Elfrid Payton healthy at the same time for the last several games. Scott Skiles did say after Thursday’s practice that he is likely to make a lineup change, although he didn’t comment on what those changes would be.
Why has the Magic’s defense suddenly become so sluggish and lackluster? Prior to the start of the New Year, the Magic were limiting opponents to 43.7 percent shooting from the field. Since ringing in 2016, opponents are shooting 46.1 percent. Also, in 10 of Orlando’s first 24 games, opponents shot lower than 40 percent. Over the last 17 games, this has happened just once.
This is usually the point of the season where we see young players either get more comfortable and improve performance or start to look tired and worn down. What direction will the Magic’s pair of 20-year-olds, Aaron Gordon and Mario Hezonja, go in? Both have shown good flashes over the last several games, especially playing in transition.
Key Stats
The Magic haven’t attempted at least 25 3-pointers since their last victory (at Nets on Jan. 8). Over the first month of the season, Orlando attempted 25 or more threes nine times. Since Dec. 1, it has taken at least this many from beyond the arc just five times.
Despite the recent slump, the Magic still rank in the top 10 in defensive points in the paint (39.3) and defensive second chance points (11.0). They rank in the top half of the league in offensive points in the paint (43.1), second chance points (13.0) and points off turnovers (17.0).
Orlando continues to struggle initiating contact to earn trips to the free throw line. It ranks last in the league in FT attempts (18.1). However, the Magic do shoot 77 percent from the line.
Key Observations
The Magic need to reestablish their chosen identity, which is to be a smothering and pesky defensive team. They showed earlier in the season that they are capable of being a staunch defensive group.
The ball needs to move more crisply than it has in recent games. The Magic are most efficient when dribbling is reduced. They shoot 47.6 percent from the field when no dribbles precede a shot.
Considering the Magic don’t get to the line much, it makes it even more imperative to take more 3-point shots. It’s hard to rely on mid-range jumpers when you don’t have enough free throws to add on. With better ball movement and spacing, the Magic are capable of being a solid 3-point shooting team.
Quote of the Day
“It’s still trusting each other, not letting our team fracture. We definitely need to put a run back together.” – Aaron Gordon