Orlando Magic Daily
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5 takeaways from the Orlando Magic’s 2021 season

By Devonta Davis

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Jamahl Mosley, Dallas Mavericks
LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 16: Summer League head coach Jamahl Mosley of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during a semifinal game of the 2017 Summer League against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 16, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Los Angeles won 108-98. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

2. A new coach should work wonders

Unlike most coaching changes throughout the NBA, Steve Clifford decided to step away from his contract leaving the Orlando Magic to find their new head coach in Jamahl Mosley, a longtime assistant coach for the Dallas Mavericks. He is known for being a players’ coach during his stint there.

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Fans can look for the team’s defense to improve during the Mosley era as he was responsible for the Dallas Mavericks defense the past three seasons. They may not have been the strongest statistically defensively, but scouts noted how hard they played on that end of the floor and how much they outperformed their natural defensive talent.

Before his time with the Dallas Mavericks, Mosley worked with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2010-14 as an assistant coach and the Denver Nuggets from 2006- 10 as player development and assistant coach.

This experience is what makes Mosley the perfect hire for this position. Seeing three previous teams going through the same rebuild process that is ahead of the Magic should help expedite the process in Orlando. With a young core and a player’s coach, the future is looking bright.

1. Cole Anthony is a stud

Cole Anthony came into the league with some expectations on his shoulders after a strong high school career gave way to a disappointing year at North Carolina. The rookie had a solid campaign scoring a career-high 37 points, hitting two game-winning shots and increasing his production as the season progressed.

The Magic felt lucky to snag the North Carolina prospect with the 15th pick a year ago, and his play toward the end of the year validated their thoughts on him.

Anthony averaged 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game following the Magic blowing up their roster at the trade deadline. While Anthony, like many rookies, struggled to adapt to the shooting in the NBA during his first year, his play after the trade deadline has many fans hopeful for the future.

Next. Orlando Magic stacked at guard, but roster looks modern. dark

As Anthony continues to learn more about the NBA game through his new coach and experience, not only will his game grow, but it will directly affect how the team grows during this next season.