OKC Thunder: NBA Power Rankings -Griffin buyout shifts ladder at half way mark
38. . 13-23. Previous: 26th. Orlando Magic. 26. team
Orlando Magic:
Week 11: 0-2
Lost to: Mavericks 124-130, Hawks 112-115
Week 12 opponents: @Heat, @Spurs, Heat
Offense: (105.7) 26th
Defense: (112.3) 20th
Net: (Minus -6.6) 28th
Several teams have been hampered by injury this season but it’s hard to pick a team more impacted than the Magic. Consider the core of the Magic and other than Nikola Vucevic every other member is either lost for the season (Jonathan Isaac, Markelle Fultz) or missed (will miss) significant time.
Rookie Cole Anthony joined that list due to a fractured rib and the oft-injured Aaron Gordon could miss up to six weeks due to a severe ankle sprain.
Orlando has consistently struggled offensively during Steve Clifford’s tenure but was among the better defensive clubs. But missing Isaac and the revolving door of injured players is costing Clifford’s defensive system this season.
With the team seemingly headed for the lottery, what moves will Jeff Weltman make at the deadline? Al-Farouq Aminu is finally healthy but with next season being a player option on his contract he could bring in some draft capital for a contender seeking a forward who can spread the court (40 percent from deep) while offering help on defense and cleaning the glass.
Likewise, Evan Fournier is due to be a free agent at season end so the Magic may try to trade him and get something back prior to either having to re-sign him or watch him exit for nothing in free agency.
The Magic are in a unique situation in that they have solid cornerstone talents, a defined system, and culture. Their best bet is to tank the rest of the way and ship out some veteran contracts to bolster their draft closet. This team may have been devastated this season but they could add some quality prospects this summer and come back with a roster capable of jumping right back into the playoff picture.