After finding his rhythm with the team, the sharpshooter looks to trade early-season growing pains for veteran leadership and improved efficiency within Orlando’s evolving offensive system.
Desmond Bane’s first season with the Orlando Magic came with an adjustment period, but the former TCU star believes that experience should make a significant difference as he enters his second year with the franchise.
Bane arrived in Orlando after being acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies and had to learn how to fit alongside several established pieces, including Paolo Banchero, Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner. While the process took some time, Bane eventually found his rhythm and became an important part of the Magic’s rotation.
Now, heading into his second season, Bane says the familiarity he has developed with his teammates has made the transition much easier.
"It’s night and day," Bane said after practice Wednesday. "I know Paolo [Banchero]’s play style, I know [Jalen] Suggs, I know Franz [Wagner]. Even though it’s a new system, I kind of know how I can help them and vice versa. It will take a little time with the new system. As far as getting acclimated, it’s been much easier."
That familiarity could be especially important for Bane as Orlando looks to get more out of his offensive game.
Bane struggled to find his footing early last season. Through his first 11 games, he averaged 14.9 points per game while shooting just 27.7% from three-point range. Once he became more comfortable, however, his production increased significantly.
Over his final 71 games, Bane averaged 20.9 points per game while shooting 40.5% from three on 5.4 attempts per game.
Bane believes the Magic can avoid some of the growing pains that accompanied his arrival last season because the core of the team already understands how he plays.
"We are rolling into camp, and we already know each other. We’ve been through a little bit together. Trying to integrate me last year into the starting lineup takes time. I feel like we caught our stride throughout the season and kind of found our rhythm together. I think that we’ve got a chance to do something special with this group."
For Bane, the goal now is to build on what he established during his first year in Orlando.
The former Horned Frog played all 82 games last season and emerged as an important veteran presence for a young Magic team. With that first season behind him, Bane enters Year 2 with considerably more familiarity, confidence and understanding of his teammates.
That could give the former TCU standout an opportunity to make an even greater impact as Orlando begins a new chapter under head coach Sean Sweeney.
