Orlando Magic Daily Mailbag Volume 32: Time to begin anew

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LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 06: Jonathan Isaac #1 of the Orlando Magic contests a shot from Semaj Christon #6 of the Brooklyn Nets during the 2018 NBA Summer League at the Cox Pavilion on July 6, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Magic defeated the Nets 84-80. 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 Sam Wasson/Getty Images) /

The Orlando Magic are getting set for another season. It is another one of development and growth. But there is undoubtedly excitement for the future.

Another Orlando Magic season has arrived.

Expectations are admittedly low. While the team has talked optimistically about their outcome, the general consensus is the Magic will once again fall at the bottom of the standings. Although there is a general belief the team will be better.

Zach Lowe ranked the Magic No. 27 in his League Pass rankings — despite their consistently great broadcast team and the promise of young, exciting players like Aaron Gordon, Jonathan Isaac and Mohamed Bamba. And ESPN had the Magic at No. 28 in its preseason power rankings.

Yes, the outlook is not good.

The team gave little signal they would take a huge step. The Magic made very few moves in the offseason and focused on development, trying to get healthy and letting the young players grow. It feels like Orlando is still trying to get its bearings as it plows its way forward.

There is the whiff of change in the air as president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman sinks his teeth into this team. Already themes of the players he wants to acquire have emerged.

And the preseason brought some promise with it.

Mohamed Bamba showed impressive steps offensively. And with his length, it feels like he can make an impact defensively in time. Jonathan Isaac when he was not out with the ankle injury was a difference maker defensively still. And Aaron Gordon looked more comfortable on the ball and displayed better decisionmaking.

Is any of that good enough for the team to take a tangible step forward? Is anyone confident in the future for this team?

Coach Steve Clifford seems to be optimistic. He has quietly asked why the Magic could not make the Playoffs. That has to show some confidence in the team, right?

Likely the Magic are looking at a season of improvements and pointing the team in a better direction. But they are still looking at another year of development and growth.

And that will leave only more question. Let’s start this season by answering some of the big ones entering the season you left in my mailbag.