12. Orlando Magic
At least on paper, the Orlando Magic are one of the more intriguing teams heading into the start of the season. They have young talent and loads of it. The Magic’s promise starts with Paolo Banchero, who is coming off an NBA Rookie of the Year award season. He has all the looks of a future All-Star and potential superstar. The last time the Magic were this excited about a player had to be Dwight Howard.
But even beyond Banchero, the Magic has a collection of quality young players who should be taking another step forward in their development. Specifically, Wendell Carter Jr. and Franz Wagner are coming off great seasons a year ago. They’re a big part of the Magic’s recent success and if the team is going to take another step forward this season, they’re going to be key in that this season.
I can’t help but wonder if the Magic regret not making a move for a veteran this offseason. I’d have to imagine that such a move would’ve put the team in an even better situation heading into the start of the year.