Jan 14, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo (5) and guard Elfrid Payton (4) high five against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Houston Rockets 120-113. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Orlando Magic
Last Year’s Outcome: 25-57, Lottery
Best-Case Scenario: 35-Win Season
Why: I’ve been driving the Orlando Magic bandwagon ever since I saw Aaron Gordon in Summer League. Along with Gordon, I expect big things in the development of many of the other young players on the Magic. With Elfrid Payton running the point, Victor Oladipo and Tobias Harris flanking on the wings and Nikola Vucevic commanding the paint, the Magic have plenty to look forward to over the next few years.
Worst-Case Scenario: 20-Win Season
Why: One thing that the Magic can’t afford to do, though, is take another step back. Orlando has been building towards this moment for quite some time. The last thing that they need is for it to all just blow up in their face. The Magic have put-together a good core. Now, they just need it all to begin to click.
What Will Probably Happen: 32-Win Season
Why: As much as I would love to see the Magic make the playoffs this season, I see them finishing the season at around the 32-win mark. That won’t be good enough for a playoff spot, even in the Eastern Conference, but it should set them up for a really interesting offseason.
Most importantly, it will show progress. And, more than anything else, that’s what the Magic need.
Next: Philadelphia 76ers