Three weeks ago, the Orlando Magic were still learning what they were going to be about. As they gathered for media day, they had some interaction with their new coach in workouts and the mini-camp, but nothing replaces practice.
After a round of training camp and four preseason games, the Magic have carved out some form of identity. They — and we — have a clearer picture of who the Magic are trying to be and what their goals and style will be.
Everyone has a better idea of who the Magic are and what their strengths and weaknesses might be. Even with several players still waiting to return from injury. The Magic will have to spend some time during the course of their season integrating those players into this style they are cultivating.
The Orlando Magic’s preseason gave us some clues of who this team will be this season. There was plenty of takeaways from the preseason run.
Expectations are admittedly low for the Magic around the league. What Orlando is looking to accomplish this year is more focused on player development for sure. There will be a lot of long days ahead and the team is going to have to find victories in little areas as they continue to grow.
The preseason was really just a taste of who this Magic team is. And a lot of it is still under construction. There is still a lot of growing to come from young players and the group will still develop.
But come Wednesday in San Antonio, the games will count. And while the team will not be fully judged by their record this season, how they perform in games will still matter in the long run. Winning still has to mean something.
And, after all, at 0-0, anything is still possible.
The Magic’s preseason games were really a snippet of the team’s potential and the way they will play when the season begins. Still, those early games are a clue to what the Magic will see.
Now that the next time we see the Magic play will be for keeps, there is a lot we have learned. Here are five things we learned from these four preseason outings.