Magic's early struggles expose defensive lapses and offensive rhythm issues. Can new additions ignite their season before it's too late?
The Orlando Magic have slipped in ESPN’s latest power rankings after a sluggish 3-5 start to the season. Despite offseason hype and early optimism, the Magic’s only wins have come against weaker opponents, while their losses, including two to the Atlanta Hawks, the latest without Trae Young have exposed major flaws.
Both offensive rhythm and defensive effort are missing, leaving the team searching for consistency and chemistry on both ends of the floor.
“Bane has struggled from 3,” ESPN wrote. “Shooting just 28.5 percent in his first eight games. And he has only scored 23 points in his past three games, culminating with an ejection in the third quarter of Tuesday's loss to Atlanta for a flagrant foul against Onyeka Okongwu and a subsequent technical foul for swiping the ball at Okongwu after the foul. Still, the Magic know it's early and that they need more time to develop chemistry with their new performer.”
Outside of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner carrying the offensive load, the Magic haven’t shown the growth many anticipated. They currently rank No. 27 in three-point percentage, a major concern given their offseason focus on improving perimeter shooting.
Desmond Bane’s arrival was supposed to spark that change, but he’s shooting just 28.6 percent from the field so far. Still, Bane’s defensive effort and leadership have been valuable, even if the shooting numbers haven’t caught up yet.
“Once that happens,” the article added. “They expect to shoot much better from three with Bane creating space for Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner while providing some much-needed veteran leadership. It might be off to a slow start, but the Magic are betting four first-round picks and a first-round pick swap that Bane will get things going.”
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Orlando's defensive foundation crumbles, fueling frustration as winnable games slip away. Effort and focus wane, jeopardizing their identity. Click Here
Magic Decline Fourth-Year Rookie Option On Guard-Forward Jett Howard
The Magic pass on Jett Howard's option, signaling an early end to his tenure and opening the door for his unrestricted free agency. Click Here
Magic Forward Franz Wagner Projected To Earn Major First Time Honor
Wagner's career-best efficiency and scoring surge position him for his first All-Star nod, even amidst team struggles. Click Here