The Orlando Magic's season has been a rollercoaster. The team started out with lofty expectations and was expected to be among the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Orlando began the season poorly with inconsistent shooting and efficiency. With multiple injuries to the rotation as well, there have been players who have stepped up and taken on bigger roles. The biggest breakout star this season for Orlando is guard Anthony Black, who is receiving praise for his performances as of late.
ESPN released an article, predicting multiple award contenders in the NBA at the start of the new year. Black is noted as a contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award, behind frontrunner Jaime Jaquez Jr. of the Miami Heat.
"Black is in a similar spot, with his best production (19.2 PPG) coming in 14 starts," the article wrote. "Given the strength of Orlando's starting five, Black won't likely usurp a spot, but he, too, fills in at multiple positions."
Other players in contention include Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Timberwolves center Naz Reid and Rockets guard Reed Sheppard.
Black, a 2023 first-rounder out of Arkansas, has stepped into a larger role this season with Jalen Suggs missing time due to a hip contusion. The perimeter shooting in Orlando has been the major problem over the past couple of seasons. Black has helped with his 35 percent from three-point range which isn't incredible but a noticeable improvement from his 31.8 percentage last campaign. This season, Black is averaging 15.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.9 assists.
The Magic's starting lineup at full strength is among one of the stronger rotations in the league. Black has started 20 of the 40 games played this season but with the consistent injury bug that continues to hit this roster, he has seen his role increase more as the season has progressed.
The Magic's youth have been a bright spot for the team this year. Young players such as Black, Jase Richardson, Noah Penda and Tristan da Silva have impressed with their roles. If the team can stay healthy and continue to get strong play from their young guys such as Black, the team should be viewed as a serious Eastern Conference contender.