Magic 'Ailing Offense' Not Addressed at Trade Deadline
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ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic are riding out the rest of the year with their team despite having trouble on offense throughout the season.
Despite holding a 28-24 record, the team ranks 24th in offensive rating ... not quite the formula for a contender. However, their fourth-best defensive rating has the team eyeing their first playoff berth since 2020. The defense is also a big reason why the Magic felt comfortable not making any trades before Thursday's 3 p.m. deadline.
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"The Magic elected to wait until the summer to make impactful moves that would improve their ailing offense," Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer writes. "Orlando has been one of this season’s biggest surprises, but it likely faces an early exit in the postseason. Their elite defense should lead the Magic to a playoff spot, but the first round could expose just how far their offense needs to progress. Maybe along the way, Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs will pick up valuable experience that helps propel them as players in the years to come."
The Magic will have a chance to see this year through with a roster that's as healthy as it has been in a long time (as long as it stays that way). And then the front office can make some decisions in the offseason, where activity is expected to be more fruitful.
The Magic continue their four-game home stand before the All-Star Break tomorrow night when they face off against the Chicago Bulls. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.
