News Summary
The Orlando Magic are entering the new NBA season with increased expectations after significant roster changes, including retaining the No. 1 pick Paolo Banchero. With recent trades and signings designed to enhance their competitiveness, the team is focused on building cohesion and delivering successful results. Coach Jamahl Mosley is optimistic about the upcoming training camp and the potential for deeper playoff runs. The organization aims to address past challenges, particularly in three-point shooting, while fostering the development of young talents and establishing a winning culture.
Orlando — The Orlando Magic are entering the upcoming NBA season with heightened expectations for success, after making significant offseason moves aimed at strengthening their roster. The team’s President of Basketball Operations, Jeff Weltman, has communicated a clear focus on winning and the importance of meeting both internal and external expectations.
Head Coach Jamahl Mosley has expressed optimism about the team’s development and potential to learn to win together, marking a possible turning point for the franchise. As preparations begin for training camp on Tuesday, the Magic are looking to build momentum ahead of their preseason games starting on October 4.
This offseason saw the signing of 2022 No. 1 pick, Paolo Banchero, to a lucrative five-year contract extension worth at least $239 million. Banchero made waves last season, earning a spot in the All-Star Game in 2024, and is eager to contribute to the team’s success alongside new additions. His contract could increase to approximately $287 million depending on his performance awards.
A major move for the Magic was the trade for guard Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies, in which they sent key players Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four future first-round picks. Bane, who averaged 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists last season, is renowned for his impressive three-point shooting ability, with a career average of 43.2%. This acquisition comes in response to the Magic’s struggles with three-point shooting last season, where they finished last in both percentage and makes.
The Magic also added free-agent guard Tyus Jones, further enhancing their backcourt strength. Additionally, two rookies, Jase Richardson and Noah Penda, are expected to play a vital role in the team’s development and results this season. This infusion of young talent aims to help the team compete effectively in the league.
Franz Wagner, who recently achieved success winning gold with the German national team at EuroBasket, believes the team’s hard work will pay dividends this season. Weltman has noted that the team’s mindset and cohesion are vital as they aim to take the next step towards becoming a winning franchise. The Magic are aiming to build on previous playoff experiences and aspire to make deeper playoff runs, possibly aiming for the NBA Finals.
The team has not yet won a playoff series, which adds urgency to their current ambitions. Updates from the organization highlight some injury concerns, with guard Jalen Suggs expected to return at the start of the season, while there is uncertainty regarding the return timeline for Moe Wagner.
Throughout the offseason, Banchero reflected on his personal journey, particularly regarding the emotional impact of his great-aunt’s illness and passing. This experience has inspired him to honor her memory through his performance on the court. As training camp approaches, players are enthusiastic about solidifying their backcourt, with particular excitement surrounding the pairing of Bane with Banchero and Suggs.
The upcoming training camp and preseason offer the Orlando Magic an opportunity to establish their dynamic and work towards the promising objectives set forth by both management and players. With a reinvigorated team structure and a focus on winning, the Magic are determined to deliver a season that meets the expectations of both their supporters and themselves.
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Additional Resources
- NBA: Orlando Magic Media Days Notable and Quotable
- SI: Orlando Magic Stars React to Desmond Bane Trade
- Newsweek: Paolo Banchero and Magic Finals Expectations
- Wikipedia: Orlando Magic
- Google Search: Orlando Magic Training Camp 2023
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
