Orlando Magic forwards Paolo Banchero (left) and Franz Wagner look to continue their growth in 2023-24.
The blueprint for success starts with youth, or so it seems with the Orlando Magic. They are trying to build the perfect beast through the Draft and so far, so good: Paolo Banchero is the reigning Kia Rookie of the Year and Franz Wagner is a potential star.
At some point, while stockpiling assets, Orlando must decide who stays and who goes. This season could determine that.
What’s new?
- The Magic will introduce a pair of first-round selections in Anthony Black and Jett Howard, all but guaranteeing Orlando will be one of the youngest teams in the league.
- Rather than swing for the fences in free agency, Orlando did a low-cost move by signing veteran Joe Ingles, who adds shooting.
- Orlando extended Moritz Wagner, perhaps a prelude to doing the same for his more talented brother, Franz, on a rookie extension.
How far can the Magic go?
This team is still in the early stages of development so it would be a surprise if Orlando took a generous leap forward or challenged for a playoff spot in 2023-24. It would be helpful if the Magic sent someone to the All-Star Game. The most likely candidate, of course, is Banchero.
1 player that must take a leap
Jonathan Isaac. Beset by injuries since the 2020 season restart, he’s appeared in 11 games in three seasons. Orlando can now release or trade him without much financial harm, so it’s imperative that Isaac, a decent defender, show what he’s worth.
In-Season Tournament
The Magic are in East Group C. Here’s a refresher on how the In-Season Tournament works.
Upcoming free agents
The Magic have 12 players that will be free agents in 2024:
- Markelle Fultz
- Moritz Wagner (team)
- Gary Harris
- Goga Bitadze
- Kevon Harris (two-way player)
- Chuma Okeke
- Joe Ingles
- Jonathan Isaac
- Mac McClung
- Trevelin Queen
- Brandon Williams
- Admiral Schofield (two-way player)
The glut of guards on this team will force Orlando to make some tough decisions. Fultz is perhaps the team’s best point guard so that could result in a trade of Anthony by the deadline. Harris, the veteran of the guards, could also be rerouted by then.
Orlando’s full roster can be found here.
New uniforms
i guess i got my swagger back
presenting our 2023-24 classic jersey ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/wUPDRnTvdD
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) September 15, 2023
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Shaun Powell has covered the NBA for more than 25 years. You can e-mail him here, find his archive here and follow him on Twitter.
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