Apr 8, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; The Orlando Magic have a team huddle before the start of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls at Amway Center. The Orlando Magic beat the Chicago Bulls 105-103. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
22. Orlando Magic
2015-2015 Efficiency Rating: 28.4
Last season, the Orlando Magic bench barely beat out the L.A. Clippers for worst bench in the NBA. Despite their fantastic young core, last season’s bench was anemic.
So you may ask how they sky rocketed to 24th on the power rankings. The answer is because the Orlando Magic had a sneaky good offseason.
Mar 18, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Orlando Magic forward
Channing Frye(8) shoots against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. The Mavs beat the Magic 107-102. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
They drafted Mario Hezonja signed Jason Smith and C.J. Watson, and have a heathy Aaron Gordon returning. Not to mention, Gordon was a standout in the Orlando Summer League. He showcased a range that many did not know he had developed.
With Gordon slotted to start, that puts sharp-shooting big man Channing Frye as the back up 4. If he can have a fraction of the success he had in Phoenix, it will help the Orlando bench dramatically.
Watson gives veteran leadership and a nice change of pace to starting point guard Elfrid Payton. He shot an outstanding 40 percent from 3-point land last season and offers defensive versatility off the bench. Add in Evan Fournier and you have a legitimate back up backcourt.
Jason Smith will also offer a legitimate back up big man, who has the ability to stretch the floor. Overall, you have to love what Orlando did for their bench. Scott Skiles will command defense efficiency and if the young talent can infuse with the veterans, Orlando could be surprise team in the Eastern Conference.
Plus, who can’t wait to see Hezonja try to do that on top-level NBA talent.
Next: Miami Heat