There is genuine excitement about the Orlando Magic for the first time in a long time.
Winning has that effect. Suddenly every player looks bright and is moving in the right direction. Optimism sets in a bit quicker and management get the benefit of the doubt.
The Magic’s surprise run to the playoffs last year — including a 42-40 record and Southeast Division title — gave the franchise a breath of fresh air.
Coach Steve Clifford proved to be a home-run hire as the team took to a culture and started to establish a way to play.