Orlando’s defense ignites a comeback, but can their shooting finally unlock playoff contention and fulfill championship aspirations?
The Orlando Magic have taken a noticeable step forward after a sluggish start, driven by sharper three-point shooting and a tougher defensive edge. The trade for Desmond Bane initially raised questions about value, but with Paolo Banchero sidelined and Bane stepping into a heavier role, the return on that investment is finally taking shape. Even so, there’s still room for Bane to raise his three-point efficiency, an improvement that could push Orlando firmly into winning territory and set the stage for a legitimate playoff run.
ESPN recently broke down how contenders across both conferences can elevate their play heading toward the postseason, and for the Orlando Magic the message was clear: sharpen both ends of the floor, but especially double down on their defensive identity. Orlando’s rise this season has been built on physicality and discipline, and tightening that formula could be what ultimately secures their spot in the playoff picture.
“After a slow start to the season,” ESPN wrote. “The Magic have seemingly found their footing and defensive identity. They've won 9 of their last 13, even with Paolo Banchero missing the past six games because of a groin injury. Defensively, the Magic are still trying to recapture the level they defended at last season when they finished with the second-best defensive rating. And the Magic are playing faster with coach Jamahl Mosley emphasizing running off stops and pushing when they can. But shooting remains a question mark.”
Above all else, the Magic’s three-point shooting is the swing factor that could finally break the franchise’s long-running struggles from deep. They don’t need to become one of the league’s elite shooting teams, but landing closer to the middle of the pack would allow their offense to finally match the strength of their defense and unlock the ceiling this roster keeps hinting at.
“While they've improved their 3-point shooting slightly,” the article added. “From a last-place 31.8% last season to 35.4% this season, they need to shoot better. Orlando paid a steep price to get Desmond Bane to address this area, betting he will raise his 3-point shooting percentage to his career 40.7% average. But will his presence open more space for Banchero and Franz Wagner to operate in? And can Banchero and Wagner improve their 3-point shooting to get the Magic out of the first round? Wendell Carter Jr. and Tristan da Silva have shot above 40% from 3, which helps. But if Orlando wants to make noise in the postseason, Bane, Banchero and Wagner have to raise their 3-point shooting to give Orlando's elite defense the help it needs.”
Magic Fall Short To Celtics As Jett Howard Erupts For Career-High Performance
Despite key absences, Jett Howard erupted for a career-high 30 points. The Magic battled, but a dominant Celtics stretch proved insurmountable. Click Here
Franz Wagner Shines Against Knicks, Proves Growth With Clutch Performance
Wagner's 37-point masterclass against the Knicks showcases his offensive explosion and clutch ability, propelling the Magic's winning streak. Click Here
Magic Trending In The Right Direction Thanks To Growth In Crucial Area
The Magic lock down opponents, fueling a recent surge. Discover how their relentless defense and emerging stars are steering their season toward success. Click Here