A Busy Off-Season for the Orlando Magic
Photo uploaded by Doug L.
Just a few hours after the Orlando Magic thought they had their coach and GM of the future, he decided to return where many of us wish we could (at least for a couple of fun filled nights)… college. After much drama, Billy Donovan opted to return to the University of Florida prompting the Magic to hire former Miami Heat coach Stan Van Gundy.
The Magic did sign arguable the best available free agent in Rashard Lewis who spent the past xx season with the Seattle Supersonics averaging a career high 22.4 points and 6.6 rebounds. Lewis should be the perfect compliment to emerging superstar center Dwight Howard who led the team last season in scoring, rebounding and blocks. Dwight Howard is 21 years young and the cornerstone of this team. Plain and simple: the Magic go as he goes.
Gone will be the long time face of the Magic and oft injured Grant Hill who is now with the Phoenix Suns. Joining Hill on the train out of town were the almost promising Darco Milicic and sharp shooter Travis Diener.
A familiar face will be on the bench this season, Patrick Ewing. No, he won’t be sharing minutes with Dwight Howard but showing him all his moves as a coach.
With this interesting blend of new talent and coaching, the Magic are early contenders to knock off the Heat in the East after finishing last year 2 games under .500. Van Gundy will have to use all his coaching know how to blend the talent behind Howard and Lewis. The Magic are enjoying a successful pre-season which was highlighted by a trip to China and will open Halloween Night against the Milwaukee Bucks. Click here to see Orlando Magic’s game schedule.
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