OKC Thunder close gap on bottom 3: Tank wars Episode 4

Orlando Magic (21-45)

Each of the bottom teams most invested in tanking has quality assets that with the addition of one talent (and possibly the right vet) could quickly move up the ladder.

Despite Orlando’s fire sale at the trade deadline, they have a quality core that was greatly affected by long-term injury. Both Jonathan Isaac and Markelle Fultz are core foundational players so losing them for the season was rough.

On the other hand, when that duo returns next season it will be to a revamped squad with restocked depth that is a better fit for their timeline. Cole Anthony has soaked up all the extra playing time and experience this season which will pay dividends next season.

Arguably, the addition of Gary Harris, Wendell Carter, RJ Hampton, and Mo Wagner could find the Magic right back in the playoffs next season.

And, that’s not even considering the draft prospects they’ll acquire this year including two lottery picks (Chicago’s pick belongs to Orlando unless it falls fourth or under).

Perhaps that’s why the Magic haven’t been as concerned about tanking or at least don’t seem as invested in losing given their three wins in the last five games (Cavaliers, Grizzlies, Pistons). Thunder fans aren’t upset as it allowed them to make up ground and move down the tanking ladder.

This weekend they’ll play Hornets and Wolves then finish with a four-game road trip in the final week of action featuring stops in Milwaukee, Atlanta, and to Philadelphia where they’ll play their final two games of the 2020-21 campaign.