Orlando Magic Daily
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2017 Central Florida 85 Nos. 69-85: Happy Homecomings

By Philip Rossman-Reich

ORLANDO, FL - JULY 27: Arron Afflalo of the Orlando Magic addresses the media on July 27, 2017 at 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 Gary Bassing/NBAE via Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - JULY 27: Arron Afflalo of the Orlando Magic addresses the media on July 27, 2017 at 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 Gary Bassing/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Terrence Ross, Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets
CHARLOTTE, NC – MARCH 10: Terrence Ross #31 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball during the game Charlotte Hornets on March 10, 2017 at Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images) /

72. Terrence Ross, Orlando Magic

Terrence Ross is still getting somewhat used to his new digs with the Magic. He arrived with the team in February in the Serge Ibaka trade and helped transform the team’s offense into something that was at least watchable. His ability to spread the floor helped the team change its identity and boost its starting lineup.

Ross did his best to rush to Orlando immediately after the trade. He sensed a big opportunity for him in his career. He was going from a reserve with the playoff-bound Toronto Raptors to starting with the Orlando Magic. It was his chance to find a more consistent role and opportunity.

All of that is still in front of him. Ross was solid, but he was still clearly adjusting to his new location. He ended up averaging 12.5 points per game and posting a 51.7 percent effective field goal percentage.

Ross was not quite the shooter the Magic wanted. But Orlando also used him more on curls and as a passer and playmaker. He surprised with his passing — his 1.8 assists per game in a Magic uniform was by far his career high if it were for a full season.

It is still unclear exactly how the Magic will use him. And there is at least some suggestion he could end up coming off the bench next season again depending on how Jonathon Simmons works out.

Ross then is emblematic of so much of the Magic roster this year. He is a wild card. As he has been throughout his career. He could turn the corner and find consistency or he could settle back into the supporting role that has plagued him his entire career.

Either way, it should help the Magic in the short term.

71. John Campbell, Dr. Phillips HS Football

Dr. Phillips remains one of the powers in the area for high school football. John Campbell and the offensive line will be a reason why. The three-star offensive lineman, who is rated No. 66 in Florida by 247Sports, committed to the Miami Hurricanes this summer.

70. Hadji Barry, Orlando City B

Hadji Barry is a familiar face for Orlando fans. He went to UCF and got drafted by Orlando City in last year’s MLS Draft. He has spent the majority of his career so far with Orlando City B. But it is quickly becoming clear he could make an impact at MLS level. Maybe sooner than we think. Barry has scored eight goals this year to lead Orlando City B.

69. Austin Block, Orlando Solar Bears

Austin Block has established himself as a stalwart of the Orlando Solar Bears after two solid seasons with the team. He is one of the few players currently on Orlando’s roster — the rest of the roster is filled after the Toronto Marlies complete their training camp. Block scored 12 goals and passed out 23 assists. His hustle and energetic play made him a fan favorite.

Next: 5 snubs from the NBA2K All-Time Orlando Magic

We will be back tomorrow with part two of our series ranking the top 85 figures in Central Florida sports. Be sure to put in your thoughts and who you think should make the list in the comments below!