NBA 2015-16 season: Grading every team’s performance
By Tom West
Orlando Magic (D)
Earlier this season, the Magic looked like they could be one of the more positive surprises in the NBA. Sure, they didn’t have a rookie with the star type talent that Karl-Anthony Towns has, but they have a host of young players who can all make a difference in one way or another. From Aaron Gordon’s jaw-dropping athleticism and Dunk Contest performance to their 5th overall pick from last year’s draft in Mario Hezonja, there was cause for excitement before the season began.
And there’s still cause for excitement going forward. On a talent basis alone, the Magic have a roster that’s hard to go unnoticed. Gordon has the rare athleticism to be a dynamic playmaker from the four, Nikola Vucevic is still one of the better offensive centers in the NBA, Evan Fournier had the best year of his career and may re-sign this summer, Elfrid Payton is a pesky defender and moderate triple-double threat, and Victor Oladipo has real talent despite his fit at times.
The question for this young team is why send Tobias Harris and Channing Frye away at the trade deadline for such little return?
The Magic’s standing at 11th in the East may seem disappointing and rightfully so. After hinting at the potential to possibly steal the 8th seed or at least come closer to it, 11th isn’t anything to boast about. But seeing as this is still a young team without much veteran or star presence, head coach Scott Skiles has done well to take a clear step forward from 25 wins last season.
On top of that, soaring from 27th in defensive efficiency to 16th is an element that can help give the team a little more identity going forward as they try to craft the roster or make the kind of trade to land a star and continue their ascension.
They just need to find a star after losing Harris and Frye at the trade deadline in order to capitalize on otherwise questionable moves.
Next: Washington Wizards