As last season ended, Magic president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman emphasized the need for drastic improvement, particularly on offense. Orlando ranked last in three-point shooting percentage and assists. After the signing of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope proved underwhelming, Weltman abandoned his typically conservative offseason approach and went all-in, pulling off a blockbuster trade for Desmond Bane.
Acquiring a player of Bane’s caliber signals a larger plan for Finals contention. The Magic have built one of the league’s rising young cores, and with strong chemistry, physical defense and an improved offense, they appear poised to take the next step toward true contention.
During Magic Media Day, Weltman revealed his expectations are extremely high for this roster and its ability to become a major factor in the Eastern Conference.
“This time of year, every team is excited about their prospects,” Weltman said. “You know, whether you're going through a rebuild or kind of really competing for a championship, whatever your kind of line of attack is, you're excited today for us. I've never been more excited since I've been here. Personally, I feel that we have a team that's capable of accomplishing big things. Everyone has come in with the right mindset. Everyone's together, and the vibe in the building has been really exceptional.”
In an Eastern Conference plagued by injuries, the Magic could realistically climb into the top three if they start the season strong. The East features a mix of contenders chasing immediate success and teams prioritizing the development of their young talent, giving Orlando a prime window to capitalize.
“I think the East is really strong,” Weltman added. “I think that there are a lot of teams that are, about to pop, and hopefully we're one of them. So I look past this, this wave of injuries, and I just hope that we don't contribute to that. That's all, and obviously, that's going to shift every year. One team is injured this year and healthy the next, and that honestly is a big determinant of who's on that lottery podium at the end of the season each year. So I think the East is very well positioned to be deep and strong for years to come. Hopefully we're part of that.”
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