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Orlando Magic Schedule: 10 Games to Look Forward to

By Ryan Doyle

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 2: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic dribbles the ball against Sergio Rodriguez #14 of the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on December 2, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 2: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic dribbles the ball against Sergio Rodriguez #14 of the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on December 2, 2016 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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Elfrid Payton, Orlando Magic, Willie Reed, Miami Heat
ORLANDO, FL – MARCH 3: Elfrid Payton #4 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Miami Heat on March 3, 2017 at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Oct. 18: vs. Miami Heat

Last season, the Orlando Magic tipped-off against the Miami Heat and got beaten pretty badly. Magic fans were brought back down to Earth in just one game. The 108-96 defeat hinted at the struggles Orlando would have for the rest of the season.

Even with the early loss to the Heat, the Magic went on to win the season series. Now that Orlando has the bragging rights, the team will have to continue to shock their in-state rivals.

Both Miami and Orlando made a handful of quiet moves that should improve both teams. The Heat added versatile forward Kelly Olynyk and drafted athletic big man Bam Adebayo. The improved depth along the frontcourt should help take the load off Hassan Whiteside.

This season, expectations may be lower for the Magic, but they are certainly higher for the Heat. On paper, Miami should be a playoff team led by veteran point guard Goran Dragic and Whiteside.

The Magic will have one advantage in this matchup. They are playing at home and the Amway Center should be packed. Although there will certainly be a solid amount of Heat fans, there should be a solid home court for the Magic.