Orlando Magic: The 2018 NBA offseason summary and recap
Looking back at what the Orlando Magic did right and wrong during the 2018 NBA offseason, including free agency and the draft
The Orlando Magic, once again, entered the NBA offseason with a ton of things to address. And two of those biggest things included the head coach of arguably their best player on the roster.
Orlando accomplished both of those things this summer.
After being fired by the Charlotte Hornets just after the season, the Magic worked hard – and quick – to bring Steve Clifford back into the league. And while he really isn’t a huge hire for the Magic, it’s a solid one at the very least.
More from Sir Charles In Charge
- LeBron James working to assemble super team for USA Basketball in 2024
- Dillon Brooks proved his value to Houston Rockets in the 2023 FIBA World Cup
- NBA Trade Rumors: 1 Player from each team most likely to be traded in-season
- Golden State Warriors: Buy or sell Chris Paul being a day 1 starter
- Does Christian Wood make the Los Angeles Lakers a legit contender?
Clifford did find success during the early portion of the stint with the Hornets, but begin to hit a rough patch during the last two seasons. Clifford needed a change of scenery and could actually thrive with the Magic.
Orlando is a extremely young and talented team that needs the right coach to bring the most out of their potential. During the draft, the Magic added Mo Bamba to their already talented young core.
They also managed to re-sign Aaron Gordon, who was a restricted free agent this past summer. Hoping that he continues to make strides, Orlando could be an interesting watch this season.
Plus, the expectation is that we’ll see more and more good things out of Jonathan Isaac in year two.
The Magic won’t be under any, if at all, pressure during the 2018-19 NBA season, but could have the right pieces – and now the potentially right lead voice (Clifford) – to turn a few heads in the Eastern Conference this upcoming season.
A lot will depend on their ability to continue to develop their young core, which has been somewhat of a difficulty for this team over the last few years. It’s why we’re now seeing Victor Oladipo flourish on a different franchise.
light. Related Story. Washington Wizards: The 2018 NBA offseason summary and recap
The Orlando Magic’s future is bright, but they need to take a step forward this season. No more regression for this franchise. They can’t afford it.