Orlando Magic Power Rankings Roundup: Still seeking a handle
Moke Hamilton, Basketball Insiders
41. The Dubs took care of their business on Thursday night, beating up on the depleted Knicks by a final of 103-90. What makes them scariest (and unstoppable) is how they share the ball. On Thursday night, they had 41 assists on 45 field goals. For them, having an assist rate of 80 percent or better is quite routine. It’s also amazing.. (23-4). Previous: . Golden State Warriors. 1. team
Washington Wizards. 19. team. 142. The Wiz have won three of four and, very quietly, only trail the third seed in the conference by two games in the loss column. Fortunately, in the Eastern Conference, it only takes one winning streak to find yourself right back in the thick of things, huh?. (10-14). Previous:
Orlando Magic. 20. team. 38. Elfrid Payton had just one 20-point game all season long prior to being sent to the bench for the team’s November 27 contest against the Bucks. Since then, he’s had two, including in Wednesday’s 131-120 victory over the Hawks—their only win in their last five, unfortunately.. (11-16). Previous:
Denver Nuggets. 21. team. 73. After finishing up their six-game road trip at 2-4, the Nuggets dropped 132 points on the Blazers (whom they defeated). Even more impressive, Denver had EIGHT players score in double figures. Still, in this league, you need an alpha-male and we’re still not sure who that guy is in Denver.. (10-16). Previous:
Elfrid Payton is another lightning rod for the Magic and their fans.
He is capable of big games. His performances against the Washington Wizards and Atlanta Hawks brought a ton of optimism for what he can be.
But like with so many other player son this team, he is inconsistent. It is unclear whether he is going to attack and score with aggressiona nd get others involved or kind of float around in uncertainty.