Series the Orlando Magic must win to make a run at the Playoffs
By Drew Miller
![CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 10: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic plays defense during a game against the Chicago Bulls on April 10, 2017 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 10: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic plays defense during a game against the Chicago Bulls on April 10, 2017 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/68e8efde1f9d4f479a62ed8e1d85004cac27d73f874e854f46424ea0266b076a.jpg)
Golden State Warriors
Nov. 13 at Golden State
Dec. 1 at Orlando
Games against the stacked defending champion Golden State Warriors might seem to be automatic losses. But these games are more important than they seem at first glance.
Last year (in the middle of a regretful season), Warriors fans greatly outnumbered Magic fans at Amway Center. While two big wins versus the champions would be helpful in the standings, there are more benefits than just two more wins in the column. Winning versus the best team helps Magic players buy into their potential and creates great excitement and buzz around the fanbase.
Especially since both games against Golden State happen so early in the season. It could be a huge confidence boost.
Orlando suffered from a general lack of a home court last season, recording a putrid 16-25 record at home. Attendance was up slightly overall, but it felt the energy was dull. The Amway Center seemed like a ghost town.
Suffice it to say, a greater fan presence could greatly help the team play with energy. Not to mention, the national attention/coverage a series win over the Warriors could generate would be huge.
While the Warriors clearly have more talent than the Magic, the team has a shot to catch the Warriors sleeping and with great intensity, an improvement on defense and a little shooting luck, the Magic can compete in this two-game series.