Orlando Magic's Jalen Suggs Ready for 'Fresh Start' This Season

Full-Court Magic host Don Strouble had an interesting excerpt about Jalen Suggs:

“The Orlando Magic are in this unique position where they do not have a true floor general in either Jalen Suggs or Desmond Bane. Last year Jalen had a career-high in assists even though his usage rate was lower than the other three key guys—Paolo, Franz, and Desmond.

So we know that he can step into a point guard role, but I think first and foremost, he is a defensive guard that can terrorize teams in the half court and give you problems on the ball. By acquiring Desmond Bane, they took some of the offensive pressure off Jalen. What I would tell him is: when you have the ball in your hand, make the right choice. Don't try to be too flashy, don't try to be something you're not, and really lean into your strengths on the defensive end and continue to be that anchor for this group moving forward.”

During media day, Suggs spoke on his high expectations this season.

Suggs said he feels healthy heading into the season after putting together a consistent summer without many interruptions. He has spent multiple weeks working five days a week on both his body and his on-court game, focusing on building strength and making sure he is prepared to handle the demands of the season.

That consistency has also given Suggs more confidence in his body and allowed him to play freely during workouts. He believes the work he has put in this summer has him in a strong position physically heading into the season.

Suggs said he views himself as a versatile guard rather than someone who needs to be the team's primary ball handler every night. His focus is on doing whatever the Magic need from him, whether that means playing point guard, operating off the ball, defending multiple positions or helping control the game.

With Orlando's roster offering plenty of versatility, Suggs doesn't believe he needs to have the ball in his hands at all times to make an impact. He has continued working on his ballhandling, decision-making and point guard skills to become more efficient and consistent, but ultimately said his priority is finding ways to help his teammates and contribute to winning regardless of which position he plays.

Suggs described the arrival of Sweeney and his staff as a fresh start for the Magic. He said the players have embraced the new coaching staff and the detailed approach being implemented on both ends of the floor.

The changes have extended beyond the court, with the coaching staff emphasizing film work, habits, weight-room training and recovery. Suggs said the new relationships, schemes and preparation have created a refreshing environment as the team enters the season with a different approach.

Suggs said he spent most of the summer focused on improving his game and preparing for the upcoming season. Rather than traveling extensively, he spent much of his time in the gym and working with the people around him to continue developing.

After the way last season ended, Suggs said he used the offseason as motivation to improve and move past the disappointment. He enters the new season feeling energized and ready to return to the court, play in front of Magic fans and give them a team they can be proud of.