ORLANDO – Forced to make a move because of injuries to shooting guards Evan Fournier and Jodie Meeks, Orlando Magic coach Frank Vogel promoted veteran C.J. Watson to the starting lineup on Friday night.
Vogel gave thought to moving Mario Hezonja into the starting five, but he wants to keep the second-year swingman at the small forward position because of defensive reasons.
Watson, the Magic’s most veteran player in his 10th NBA season, got the nod at the starting shooting guard slot because of his history of strong defense and his ability to play both guard spots offensively and defensively.