Despite the media labeling the new Orlando Magic lineup as a bunch of ragtag guys who will try to play hero, the Magic have entered into training camp as a new team taking generous strides into contender ranks. One of the big changes to the coaching strategy has been head coach Jacques Vaughn’s willingness to return play calling to PG Jameer Nelson. Having spent his entire career with the Magic, Nelson was not given as much creative freedom under Stan Van Gundy, but often found ways to make plays through assisting rather than scoring.
The most interesting battle for the Magic, who have marketed themselves as an electric scoring team, will be the battle for Shooting Guard between JJ Redick and Arron Afflalo. If we were to look at the matter through a measure of seniority, JJ Redick would win the job. Yet, Afflalo comes to the team sporting a 15.2 PPG, .398 3PT percentage, and 3.2 RPG. Redick rings in as 11.6 PPG, .418 3PT percentage, and 2.3 RPG. Statistically, both players are suitable to start. The true determining factor will be who can be trusted in the clutch. Over the last two years, JJ Redick has come off the bench to close deficits of 20 points or more. In addition to his three-point specialty, Redick lead the team in free throw percentages.
A huge worry for the Magic is the starting Center position. Center Gustavo Ayon was acquired in the Ryan Anderson trade, but the Magic are looking to match the sheer power possessed by the departed Dwight Howard. PF Andrew Nicholson showed a huge presence on the summer league circuit, tossing players around as he made his way to the basket, but also knowing when to look for the perimeter shot. Sliding Nicholson to the Center position would allow for PF Justin Harper to put in more playing time after his contributing performance of the 2011 Playoffs rallied the team to close a gap in their final playoff game.
The Magic enter in the preseason nursing some injuries. PG Ish Smith is still recovering from shoulder surgery. Rookie Maurice Harkless will miss a few games due to sports hernia. Veteran Al Harrington has recently completed knee surgery. Due to these sidelinings, Magic fans will still be able to catch glimpses of old team members such as Quentin Richardson, Hedo Turkoglu, and Glen Davis.
Speaking of Glen “Big Baby” Davis, in a recent interview, Davis mentioned the one thing he will miss about Dwight Howard is his ability to fart. Who knew? During Media Day, most players did not have much to say on the topic of Dwight Howard’s sudden exit, but in a recent interview with OrlandoMagic.com, Nelson noted, “It was just one of those things from (Howard) that I never did understand and I guess some things just aren’t meant for you to understand.” Coach Vaughn also insisted his training camp would be focused on efficiency instead of stardom. The major problem in the Magic performance has been the ability to blow out one team by 40 points, but then lose the next game by 25 points. Last season, the Magic fell from 3rd place to 6th in a matter of 5 games, placing them in the long stated rivalry against the Hawks.
By changing the rate of execution for the Magic, Coach Vaughn will rattle the playoff lineup. Please, Coach Vaughn, let’s play any other team in Round 1 except those guys.
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