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Orlando Magic Daily Roundtable: Time to believe in Magic?

By Philip Rossman-Reich

The Orlando Magic will again rely heavily on their starting lineup, a group that proved successful in 2019. (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
The Orlando Magic will again rely heavily on their starting lineup, a group that proved successful in 2019. (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Steve Clifford, Orlando Magic
MIAMI, FL – OCTOBER 08: Head coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic looks on during the first half against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena on October 8, 2018 in Miami, 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. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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.