What is the biggest change you have seen from Steve Clifford? How much of the team’s success is to his credit?
Rossman-Reich: The public accountability to this team is a big thing. I know many within the Orlando Magic organization dislike the term “culture.” But Steve Clifford is really working to change the culture around the team as much within it. By holding players publicly accountable, he is as much chiding fans for their lowered expectations. So from that perspective, Clifford is already raising what he believes the team can do from inside and out. His preparation and what he wants the team to do are also on another level. But none of this works without the players executing. And that is still the question. What will Clifford do if the team slips and how often will these ploys work?
Racine: The biggest change I have seen is that Clifford is getting the most out of his players. He is putting them in the right spots to succeed. A lot of times players were underperforming under Frank Vogel and the previous coaches. We saw how Mario Hezonja was handled. Clifford is doing a good job with the development of Mohamed Bamba and Jonathan Isaac. He is giving them enough minutes to develop, and he is not asking them to play out of their game. Also, he has got Aaron Gordon and Terrence Ross playing efficient basketball.
Flynn: I believe Steve Clifford deserves significant credit. The team is playing hard and showing a level of togetherness not seen over the past six seasons.