This week, an unexpected face-off in the Eastern Conference sees the Boston Celtics hosting a series against the Orlando Magic, a team making waves with their remarkable defensive commitment.
Surprising many, the Magic’s recent 104-94 victory against Cleveland placed them tied for second place in the East, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Milwaukee, trailing only a game behind the Celtics. A nine-game winning streak, initiated in mid-November and featuring notable wins over Denver and Boston, introduced Orlando as a formidable force, setting the stage for their upcoming clashes with the Celtics on Friday and Sunday.
Guard Jalen Suggs expressed the team’s intention to shed the image of an easy opponent, stating, “We want to be that tough team, and you’ve got to scout and bring full mental energy and physicality when you come to play us.”
Despite their recent success, Orlando Magic postseason drought dates back to 2020, with the franchise’s deeper struggles highlighted by their absence from playoff series victories since 2010. The departure of key players like Dwight Howard left the team grappling with inconsistency, managing just one winning season since 2012.
However, a significant leap occurred last season with a 12-game improvement, although it fell short of a play-in-round spot. This season, a young core comprising four starters aged 22 or younger has anchored the team’s resurgence.
While lacking a standout superstar akin to Howard or Shaquille O’Neal, the Magic boast recent first-round draft picks forming their core. Notably, Paolo Banchero, the 2022 No. 1 pick, and Franz Wagner, the No. 8 pick in 2021, lead the team’s offensive charge, with Banchero securing the Rookie of the Year title and averaging 20.7 points per game.
Supported by Jalen Suggs and rookie Anthony Black, the Magic’s youth brigade has cemented their position as one of the league’s top defensive units in the ongoing season.
Coach Jamahl Mosley’s squad ranks third in the league for defensive rating, emphasizing their emphasis on defensive play. Mosley’s guidance and their formidable defense have been pivotal during their record-equalling winning streak, drawing praise and earning Mosley Eastern Conference Coach of the Month honors.
Despite their recent wins against stronger teams, the Magic face a challenging series against the Celtics, transforming what seemed like routine games into a test for the up-and-coming team’s mettle in the NBA.
Mosley remains resolute in the team’s ethos, stating, “I think you continue to preach exactly what you know travels, which is defense.” As the Magic prepare for their pivotal games, their commitment to defensive strength remains unwavering.
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