Orlando Magic Power Rankings Roundup: Hold on to the glimpses

Mar 8, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) dribbles up the court during the first half against the Boston Celtics at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated Boston Celtics 103-98. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 8, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) dribbles up the court during the first half against the Boston Celtics at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated Boston Celtics 103-98. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
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Feb 22, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) drives to the basket as Philadelphia 76ers guard Isaiah Canaan (0) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 103-98. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) drives to the basket as Philadelphia 76ers guard Isaiah Canaan (0) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 103-98. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

John Schumann, NBA.com

The Orlando Magic’s run since James Borrego took over has been a bit up and down, but there is no doubt things have been generally positive. Aside from Elfrid Payton’s play, there has been an increase in defensive intensity and the team has an actual defensive identity.

The “competitive spirit” of the team has been better. That was what Borrego called for when he took over for Jacque Vaughn.

So mission accomplished? Well, the Magic are still falling and not quite lifting themselves up toward the end of the season. There is still a long way to go to build this team back up. But, this week and Payton’s play has provided some nice hope.

Next: Kurt Helin, Pro Basketball Talk