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Next steps in rebuilding Orlando Magic: Growth and stardom

By Philip Rossman-Reich

Aaron Gordon looks to continue some stellar play and lead the Orlando Magic to a sweep at the STaples Center. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Aaron Gordon looks to continue some stellar play and lead the Orlando Magic to a sweep at the STaples Center. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Mohamed Bamba, Orlando Magic
ORLANDO, FL – NOVEMBER 5: Mohamed Bamba #5 of the Orlando Magic looks on against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 5, 2018 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Internal growth

The Orlando Magic proved they had a team capable of making the playoffs last year. This year is about replicating those results and finding a way to take the next step. Or if they can take that next step.

As a baseline, success or failure is determined only by making the postseason. The gamble the Magic made in re-investing in this roster was that the results from 2019 are the floor for this team. Or, at least, the most likely outcome.

But that next step? That can happen in only one of two ways.

The first one is the easiest one — internal growth.

The Magic had one of the youngest teams to make the playoffs last year. While veterans played a big role in the team’s success, it is clear the Magic have a young group to incubate and grow still.

Uncertain, yes, but still promising. Far more promising than perhaps the rest of the league recognizes.

There are still plenty of questions. And the next step for the Magic is to answer these questions.

In Aaron Gordon’s case, he has played in the league five years. He seems closer to what he is in the league based on experience than anyone else. But at 23 years old, he could still become significantly better.

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    • In Jonathan Isaac’s case, he looks like a potentially elite defensive player. But his offensive game is still fairly undefined. Typically stardom presents itself early in a player’s career. And there is still some thought that Isaac does not have the aggressive mentality to take that next leap.

    In Markelle Fultz and Mohamed Bamba’s case, they are essentially rookies, having played fewer than 82 games each. Both are overcoming injuries — of various degrees. And while they are still full of potential. It is merely that. Unpredictable potential.

    The Magic have some idea what to expect from them. But for each player — even Gordon — it is not clear where their ceiling is. Orlando is working to figure out that ceiling.

    The Magic get better if Gordon or Isaac become All-Stars. The Magic get better if Fultz reclaims his potential and steps onto the floor. He potentially is the creator the Magic are desperate to find. And the Magic get better if Bamba quickly grasps defensive principles and becomes a dynamic defender to go with his surprisingly good-looking shooting.

    This year will see the Magic focus on that, growing what they have on the roster and deciding how best to move forward with this team. And from there, they will have the information to make the next move.