2005 Orlando Magic Preview

At the time of publish the NBA regular season is around the corner. What better way to get you locked and loaded for a winning season than a free season preview from Maddux Sports. We remind you that MadduxSports.com is an expert NBA handicapper and offers NBA Picks against the point spread. For more information on this years basketball package click here. Onto the individual team preview for this years Orlando Magic.

2005 Orlando Magic Team Preview

It should be interesting to see how the Orlando magic’s new coach, Brian Hill, fits in with a team that for the past six years has emphasized running and gunning with some defense on the side. Hill is a basketball traditionalist who stresses fundamentals, execution, and disciplined play. Each time the offense comes up the court, in a controlled fashion, he’ll go inside first and then to the perimeter if the big men are double-teamed. He’s a coach who slows the game down and likes half-court offense and defense.

Enter Steve Francis, a talented, undisciplined force both on and off the court. Francis was the most prolific scorer on the team last season, pumping in over 21 points per game; but his public attitude after Cuttino Mobley was sent to Sacramento hurt the Magic. Plus, the free wheeling Francis doesn’t take well to coaches like Brian Hill. In fact Francis refused to play for Hill when he was coaching Vancouver and the conservatively coached Rockets eventually jettisoned the point scorer. Here’s two statistics worth pondering—Hill made the NBA top 10 in both assists and turnovers.

Now add in last year’s rookie sensation Dwight Howard, who played in 82 games and averaged 12 points and 10 rebounds per game. Last year Howard made the league’s top 15 in rebounds, blocks, and field goal percentage. What most feel Howard and the Magic need this year is for the 6-11 power forward to get the ball more often. And that means having Francis shoot less. It makes sense, especially when you compare their FG percentages—Howard 52% and Francis 42.3%. The question becomes—how will this sit with the moody Francis?

One force that should not be forgotten is ten-year veteran Grant Hill. Hill, who was injured last year, played in 67 games and averaged 19.7 points from the floor. One question regarding Hill is how much does he have left? He had ankle and shin problems at the end of last season. A healthy Grant Hill could indicate a very productive Magic offense.

One key stat to remember—last year Orlando jumped from 23rd in rebounding to third! That’s an amazing improvement. If they can stop other teams from scoring, control the ball more, and get it in the hands of the right people, coach Brian Hill may be looking at a winning season.

For more information on the 2005 Orlando Magic Team, click here to visit their official team website.