As the 2022 season winds down, the Orlando Magic find themselves in a similar position to this time last year.
The losses are piling up, but the young players are showing promise and are being put into positions to prove themselves. For any rebuilding franchise, this is where you want to be.
The Magic are checking all of the successful rebuild boxes.
Tied for the highest odds at the number one pick. Check.
Rolling out one of the youngest rotations in the league. Check.
Possess two of the best rookies in the class. Check.
It is all there. And for a franchise that was stuck in the middle for so long, this should be encouraging for Magic fans. Even if there is some pain and uncertainty to get there.
The Orlando Magic are executing their rebuild plan well as they have plenty of intriguing young prospects while still setting up to add more in the Draft. So what’s left for the final quarter of the season?
This is exactly the type of “tear it all down, build it back up” strategy that has worked so successfully for other franchises. It is exciting to see it in action and on schedule for the Magic.
With 17 games left in the season, many may be asking – what’s left for me? Can we just fast-forward to the draft lottery?
Not so fast. March and early April may be the doldrums of the NBA season, but they usually bring about clarity. This is where the Magic can experiment with lineups, see what sticks, and ultimately establish good habits.
A solid finish to the end of this season can carry over to the next. This time of year is especially important for young players. Even though championships are not won by 16-49 teams in early March, championship habits can be formed. At least the beginnings of identity can start to get groomed.
Fans may be tempted to look past this period, but here are 3 consequential things to hope for as we approach the end of the season.