The Orlando Magic are hitting the road for a five-game trip after a rocky start to the season at home, losing two of their first three games [1]. Their first challenge comes against the Philadelphia 76ers [1]. The Magic are hoping to find their rhythm after a disappointing start [2].
Early Season Struggles
The Magic's offense has been a point of concern, struggling with ball movement and often resorting to isolation plays [19]. They rank 29th in the league with just 18.7 assists per game [19]. The team's 1-2 start included a blown 12-point fourth-quarter lead against the Atlanta Hawks, where they allowed a 15-0 run [5]. Turnovers have also plagued the Magic, as they lead the NBA with an average of 19 per game [3]. Coach Jamahl Mosley has emphasized the importance of limiting turnovers to maintain momentum [3]. Newcomer Tyus Jones, starting in place of the injured Jalen Suggs, had a quiet game with zero points in 14 minutes [6]. Despite the struggles, Mosley has highlighted some positives, noting that the team is generating opportunities [11].
Facing the 76ers
The Magic face the Philadelphia 76ers, who are 2-0 to start the season [4]. However, the Sixers will be without Joel Embiid due to left knee injury management [4, 18]. The 76ers are strong in passing, ranking second in the league [9]. The oddsmakers have the 76ers favored despite Embiid's absence [4]. Coach Mosley is aware of the increased scrutiny surrounding gambling in the NBA and has addressed the issue with his team [12, 13]. Rookie Jase Richardson showed promise in the preseason but faces competition for playing time in a crowded guard rotation [14]. The Magic are looking to improve their assist numbers, as they only recorded 14 assists in a single game three times last season [16].
TL;DR
- The Orlando Magic started the season with a disappointing 1-2 record at home and are now embarking on a five-game road trip [1].
- Offensive struggles, including poor ball movement and excessive turnovers, have contributed to the Magic's early-season woes [3, 19].
- The Magic will face a Joel Embiid-less Philadelphia 76ers in their first road game [4, 18].
- Coach Jamahl Mosley is focused on addressing turnovers and integrating new players like Tyus Jones into the lineup [3, 6].