Locked On Magic - Daily Podcast On The Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic's offense stalled once again against the Philadelphia 76ers as Paolo Banchero struggled in crunch time. Has Orlando’s offensive identity hit a wall?

The Magic's fourth-quarter collapses and inconsistent play speak to the team's inability to adjust and find another way to play, the effect of the absences of several key players and a one-dimensional offensive philosophy. But it also speaks to the team's will and struggles to do the same things over and over again.

Orlando has alternated wins and losses for the last 13 games. The team has fould little it ca...

The Orlando Magic steered clear of a blockbuster Trae Young despite years of people trying to connect him to the Magic in a potential trade.

The Magic were never hunting for a blockbuster trade this season with the team's cap situation. Instead, they are trying to thread a very fine needle -- improving the roster while also shedding $5.6 million in salary to get under the tax. Fulfilling that goal will be difficult. But the Magic should have the flexibility and options to move to get under the tax and avoid beginning their repeater clock.

With...

The Orlando Magic escaped the Brooklyn Nets in overtime thanks to a banked-in 3-pointer by Paolo Banchero at the final buzzer. It is yet another clutch moment for this Magic team that was preceded by an epic fourth-quarter collapse.

Why is the team struggling to close out games? Why do they need so many heroic moments?

The Magic have had several instances where they went into cruise control too early and gave away big leads, forcing their star players to come to attention and save the game. Orlando could very easily be in a much...

The Orlando Magic stumbled in a costly 120-112 loss to the Washington Wizards as they once again failed to put forth an acceptable effort. The Magic have had many of these games that do not meet their standard, only finding it too late after Jamahl Mosley benched his starters down 26 points.

Is this something they can solve with the impending returns of Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs? Or are there deeper issues in the team that Molsey cannot solve before the end of the season? How do the Magic find consistency and rediscover their identity?

...

The Orlando Magic are not where they hoped they would be this early in the season, fighting in the middle of the pack in the Eastern Conference. But the team is still in a good position to climb if they can get their team together.

Orlando has historically improved as the season goes on, the team's schedule sets up for success and the team can still get healthy and reach their full potential. The Magic have work to do and none of it is guaranteed. But patience is warranted to let them take those steps.

...

The Orlando Magic ground out a 135-127 win over the Indiana Pacers despite another poor defensive effort. The important thing for them is to find a way to win. They will take the wins wherever they can get them.

The Magic are still struggling to find their defensive identity and their formula to win right now. Until they get that under control, they must take what the game gives them.

On Sunday afternoon, it was their offense. They were able to score with ease against the Pacers' defense and one good defensive quarter was enough...

The Orlando Magic's defensive identity continues to crack after another dispiriting 121-114 loss to the Chicago Bulls. The team lacked the resilience and effort that have become the trademarks of this team.

Despite Paolo Banchero's 31-point outing and another solid game from Anthony Black, the Magic again went silent offensively in the fourth quarter and got outworked on defense and on the glass to give the game away yet again.

The only silver lining is the apparent nearness of Franz and Moe Wagner's return to the lineup. Their return could help the Magic right the...

The Orlando Magic had a big 2025 that showed their intent of contending. The 2026 calendar year will be about the team taking a major step toward contention and becoming a true threat in the NBA. The Magic are already on the way.

With internal improvement, aggressive management and the right breaks, 2026 will be an important step on the path toward lifting the Larry O'Brien Trophy.

Until then, enjoy the journey and all of its ups and downs as the Magic fight for their first championship.

00:00 Becoming a Championship Team

07:32 Magic's Steady Climb...

The Orlando Magic finished off 2025 with a bang as Paolo Banchero gave the Magic a 112-110 win over the Indiana Pacers with a shot with six seconds left. The Magic hope this is a launch into 2026 and the restoration of their identity and joy in the game.

Banchero followed up Monday's strong performance with another 29-point showing as he played aggressively and with intensity that has often been missing.

The Magic's flaws are not fixed, though. They still made a lot of critical errors that have repeated during the last few weeks. Not even Jalen...

The Orlando Magic's two star players were near the bottom of the Eastern Conference first returns for the All-Star Game. That is no surprise with how much the two have struggled and the injuries they have faced. It could leave the Magic without an All-Star for a second straight season.

The only way for either to get consideration is for them to return to form and for the Magic to climb the standings. Their schedule remains set for them to do so. The winning will come first, and then the individual rewards.

Getting there starts...

The Orlando Magic seemed set to celebrate a big win and Paolo Banchero's return to form. Then they went silent on offense in the final 7.5 minutes and fell to the Toronto Raptors 107-106. The same bad habits that have plagued the team in the last few weeks since injuries set in continued to haunt them as they got outworked on the glass and in transition, setting up their collapse down the stretch.

Can the Magic regain their momentum to finish this road trip and avoid letting their progress slip away?

Right now, inconsistency is winning...

The Orlando Magic started their season with a panicky 1-4 start. They resolved many of those issues to set themselves on the right track. But those issues have returned in recent games. Orlando is again on shaky ground in the last six games, as their defense has slipped and their effort has become inconsistent.

Orlando again has to find its identity and find itself to right the ship and get back on track. Saturday's win helps with the effort, but there is still much work to do as they wait for players to return from injury.

The Orlando Magic stunned the Denver Nuggets behind a breakout 38-point performance from Anthony Black. This has not been an isolated incident for the Magic. Black has been the team's most consistent scorer for several weeks and he has had more and more of these big games. Could he emerge as another potential All-Star on the team?

With Paolo Banchero struggling to find his footing, the Magic have needed more contributions from Black. But it is not just Black. The team's by-committee approach is getting put to the test. And to defeat the Nuggets, several players needed...

The Orlando Magic suffered what they must hope is a wake-up call after the Charlotte Hornets routed them 120-105. Coach Jamahl Mosley did not mince words about the team's lack of intensity, physicality and effort, raising the alarm on fundamentals that have defined the team's identity.

With Paolo Banchero struggling to find his All-Star form and the absence of key defenders in Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs, are the Magic in danger of slipping further down the standings?

The Magic's uncharacteristic lapses on the glass and with their defense are putting them in a hole...

Paolo Banchero has not looked like the same imposing All-Star he was in his the first seasons of his career. But despite concerns over his shooting and his scoring impact, Banchero has made some significant gains. He is still making a positive impact for the team with his passing and his rebounding.

There are other stats too where Banchero has historically struggled that he and the team have made gains in. It all suggests that when Banchero finds his offensive groove again, he and the Magic will take a major leap.

Everything is gearing for...

The Orlando Magic clung to a 110-106 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers thanks to their defense's clutch plays down the stretch.

But for the third straight game, the offense disappeared after building a big lead. The repeated offensive slumps raise plenty of questions about the team's execution, its star Paolo Banchero and how long the team might survive through the injuries that have taken away several key players.

It did not matter as much on Tuesday because of a clutch defensive play from Desmond Bane and surprising offensive contributions from Tyus Jones and Jonathan...

The Orlando Magic stumbled against the Golden State Warriors as their poor intensity, precision and execution let a close game become a runaway in the fourth quarter. The team struggled to meet their lofty standards and squandered an opportunity to get an important road win.

The Magic must make do with what they have, but it is clear how much they miss Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs, two defensive stalwarts who set the tone for the team's intensity and focus in every outing.

Their absence is not an excuse for the Magic losing their way...

The Orlando Magic have seen their starters play together in just 11 games and fewer than 120 minutes. So what do we really know about this Magic team? How close have we seen them to their ceiling?

Orlando's starters have dominated their minutes as the third-best lineup that has played at least 100 minutes together. The Magic have a top-10 offensive and defensive rating and are among the top 10 in many other four factor categories.

The Magic may be a sleeping giant ready to pounce and climb the standings in the coming weeks.

That does not...

The Orlando Magic escaped the Utah Jazz in a wild overtime thriller. But it did not need to be this way after building an 18-point lead in the fourth quarter. The Magic's improved offense will still go into long, quiet periods that put them in trouble.

The Jazz forced overtime thanks to one of these long stretches and Desmond Bane needed to rescue them with a layup with less than a second remaining.

Orlando's offense is much improved from last year. But the team can still go into a shell, lose their energy and movement...

Paolo Banchero has been under the spotlight all season long as everyone waits for him to solidify himself as one of the top stars in the league. Instead, Banchero continues to baffle with inconsistent efforts and poor shooting.

Banchero still got his triple-double and continues trying to make a positive impact. His talent and ability are evident. But Banchero needs to have a bigger imprint on the game for the Magic to reach their potential. And he has not hit that mark yet this season.

The Orlando Magic have other decisions to make too. It...

The Orlando Magic are set to play without Jalen Suggs for the time being. That means it is next man up and key for several players to step into bigger roles to help fill in the gaps.

Everything starts with Paolo Banchero. He has struggled to look like the team's star since returning from his injury. The Magic need Banchero to get back into form to keep the boat steady. He is slowly getting back into shape. But the process has been slow.

The Magic need more with Suggs out.

Just as they...

The Orlando Magic face another critical test of their culture and identity as injuries strike again. The Magic are missing two key starters and another key reserve player. None of them are long-term injuries and they should all return within the next few weeks, but the Magic will have their work cut out for them to maintain their standing in the East.

Still, losing Jalen Suggs for however long he is out will be a major loss. The Magic will need to recommit to their identity to make up for his absence and hold the boat steady.<...

The Orlando Magic should emerge from their NBA Cup run with renewed belief in their ability to go deep into the Playoffs and plenty of lessons to absorb about what it takes to win at a higher level.

The question they will need to wait to answer is whether they are truly ready to make that deep Playoff push in the spring.

The Magic's NBA Cup run showed their potential to meet loftier expectations. The Magic will need to use the next month to build on their record and take advantage of weaker competition as...

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The Orlando Magic came to Las Vegas to play under the dazzling lights and try to secure their first league-wide team trophy. But the Magic failed to live up to the billing and step up to the plate as Jalen Brunson and the Knicks pushed into the lead and the Magic could never recover.

Paolo Banchero is still working his way back into the rotation after his injury knocked him out for three weeks. His absence and his struggles to be aggressive were a key factor that helped the Knicks stay ahead.

As was an...

With Franz Wagner sidelined with an injury, the spotlight turns to Paolo Banchero. Critics have claimed the Magic are better without him. This is Banchero's chance to prove he can impact winning and keep the Magic afloat as they wait for Wagner's return.

Everyone will be watching Banchero to see if he can step up to the plate. Can Banchero rise to the challenge, silence doubters and prove he's a true superstar capable of carrying Orlando through adversity?

He will be vital to the team's hopes of winning the NBA Cup. As the Magic look...

The Orlando Magic and New York Knicks will meet once again as they prepare to head to Las Vegas for the NBA Cup semifinal on Saturday. Which team has the edge to advance to the final and compete for the trophy?

Gavin Schall of Locked on Knicks joins the show to break down how the Knicks have changed this season and have their eyes set on the Playoffs and winning the East and why the Magic bother them so much.

They also discuss the difference Desmond Bane has made for the Magic and how their...

The Orlando Magic crushed the Miami Heat as Desmond Bane erupted for 37 points and six 3-pointers to send the team to the NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas.

The win was not merely a statement to advance in the league's in-season tournament. It was a statement of what this team is capable of far deeper into the season.

The Magic are showing the resilience and ability to bounce back from major deficits and overcome their weaknesses. They are winning even as they figure themselves out.

00:00 NBA Cup Pursuit

06:53 Magic's Defense Shapes...

Orlando Magic fans can exhale. Franz Wagner dodged a season-ending injury and is expected to miss only about a month of action with a high ankle sprain. The Magic's postseason dreams are still very alive.

The Magic will have to go without him in their NBA Cup quarterfinal against the Miami Heat. Can Paolo Banchero step up and star for the Magic and lead them to Las Vegas?

Wes Goldberg and David Ramil of Locked On Heat join the show to break down where the Magic go next, how the Heat are adjusting and getting...

The Orlando Magic face a new test as Franz Wagner suffers a significant leg injury in Sunday's loss to the New York Knicks. The Magic will have to fill back in and find a way to survive once again facing a major injury.

Paolo Banchero is still working his way back from his early-season injury and it is clear he will need to step up more just as everyone will have to fill in with Wagner likely out. The only to move is forward. That means a focus on the team's offensive and defensive identity to find...

The Orlando Magic defeated the Miami Heat 106-105 as they welcomed back Paolo Banchero. Banchero had an understated return as he tried to fit in and find his legs for the team. But it is clear how much he will help the team reach its potential.

Finding that potential has been the theme of the week as the Magic struggled again to be consistent on both ends and had to grind out a win over the Heat. While it is positive that the Magic can win without playing their best, they know they must improve to reach...

The Orlando Magic are all ready to welcome Paolo Banchero back to the lineup. He seems set to ignite the Magic's offense, which has shown promise but slowed in the last few games.

It is easy to forget the Magic's lineup with Banchero is one of the best in the league -- and the Magic's lineup with Tristan da Silva has actually struggled. Banchero's return will recreate that lineup that has dominated the league early in the season and return da Silva to an improving bench group. It should be an overall boost for the team.

The Orlando Magic started their run to combat the San Antonio Spurs too late, only tying the game late before a pair of De'Aaron Fox free throws and a Luke Kornet block sealed their fate in a 114-112 defeat.

The Magic were playing on their back foot the entire game and could not get over the hump against a surprisingly energetic Spurs team. Their habit of easing into games and trying to rescue them late finally cost them a winnable game.

Despite this, the Magic continued to prove they are a strong team that can...

The Orlando Magic have surged to a 13-8 record after their slow start to the season. The turning point was Desmond Bane's game-winning shot against the Portland Trail Blazers. That released the pressure from the team and has unleashed Bane on the rest of the league.

As the Magic look ahead to the next 20 games, they are top-10 in both offensive and defensive rating and should count themselves among the NBA's contenders. The second quarter of the season could cement their place at the top of the Eastern Conference if they can keep this level of play...

The Orlando Magic are trying to prove they can be among the elite teams. A win over the Chicago Bulls is not likely to prove that. But finding a way to win even on a bad night and willing themselves to victory is what the elite teams do.

Desmond Bane scored 18 of his 39 points in the fourth quarter to help will the Magic to victory and Anthony Black helped spark the Magic back from a 15-point deficit. On a night when shots were not falling and the defense was far from perfect, the Magic delivered a victory...

The Orlando Magic have surged into the top 10 in both offensive and defensive rating as they approach the quarter mark of the season. But they still have work to do and there are clear pressure points for them to cover as they continue to advance through the season.

The Magic have feasted in transition but still struggle to make the half-court possessions that define Playoff basketball. Their defense is not creating turnovers at the same rate as it did last season while still establishing a consistent physicality.

Players are also starting to feel the pressure...

A month ago, the Orlando Magic were at rock bottom after the Detroit Pistons pushed them around and ran circles around them to complete a frustrating 1-4 start.

The Magic did not back down in Friday's 112-109 victory, pushing first and pushing back to take the win against the Pistons with their gritty and physical identity.

The Magic did not win this one with pretty offense or by outscoring the Pistons, they got back to they identity of grinding their way through games and leaning on their defense to get the job done. That is...

The Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons are expected to have many high-stakes battles in the Eastern Conference's future. Friday, they battle for the top spot in Group B in the NBA Cup and an inside track to a wide-open Eastern Conference.

Locked On Pistons' Ku Khahil joins the show to break down the Pistons' surprising hot start and what has helped elevate them into the best team in the Eastern Conference, nearly a quarter of the way through the season.

We also break down whether the Magic can keep up their groove with the impending...

The Orlando Magic dismantled the Philadelphia 76ers in one of the best offensive showings in franchise history as the team continues to cement itself as a capable offensive team.

No player exemplified the team's offensive potential and shift in mindset as Anthony Black. His 20 second-quarter points on his way to a career-high 31 points changed the game and turned it into not only a rout but a historic performance.

Black's aggressive mindset has been an ongoing development throughout the season. And when he is playing with that mindset, he changes the entire team's outlook. He becomes...

Paolo Banchero is inching closer to a return from his strained groin. There is already some handwringing and belief that he may derail the offensive growth the team has gone through.

The numbers from before his injury do not support that. They support that Banchero will boost the team's offense with his improved efficiency and driving and potential to be another ace passer. The Magic are seemingly about to take another big leap with his return.

The truth is the Magic's offense seemed poised to take a major leap as the team played together more...

The Orlando Magic's deep bench sparked a furious fourth-quarter comeback before giving way to the Boston Celtics on the second night of a back-to-back. Jett Howard, Jase Richardson and Noah Penda all impressed in extended playing time to lead the comeback. All three showed enough fight and production to push for playing time in the Magic's regular rotation.

Howard scored 22 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter and Richardson added 18 to lead the Magic back from a 26-point deficit, cutting it to six before the Celtics held on thanks to Jaylen Brown's 3-point shooting.

The...

The Orlando Magic overwhelmed the New York Knicks with a decisive 13-0 run in the fourth quarter. It was the kind of run that showed the team's inevitability and how the Magic can potentially devastate teams with timely runs and killer defense. This is a trait of every championship team.

The Magic got contributions throughout the roster from stars like Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane carrying the scoring weight to Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black providing key defensive possessions. Even the coaches stepped up for each other with Jamahl Mosley staying in the locker room at halftime...

Jalen Suggs is unleashed at long last as he appears to be past his minute restriction and let loose on unsuspecting offenses. The LA Clippers learned that the hard way in a 129-101 Orlando Magic victory on Thursday.

Suggs has long been the team's heart and "head of the snake." But injuries have slowed him down. Now he is learning to pick his spots better and is more consistently impacting games in a positive way.

Suggs finished with 23 points, seven assists, two steals and two blocks, setting the tone with his defense and his three-point...

The Orlando Magic had a rocky start that sent everyone panicking and worrying about the team and its future. But the team has turned it around, finding its defensive identity and enough offense to show improvement. Everything is trending in the right direction for them.

There is still plenty of work to do. It is too early in the season to say anything has stuck. And most of the Magic's challenge for the next phase of the season is to cement their identity on both ends.

The Magic are getting plenty from their two stars...

The Orlando Magic rallied past the Golden State Warriors to score a big win, recovering from Sunday's disappointing defeat. The Magic seem to have found their identity and their formula to win as they continue their strong run after their slow start to the season.

The Magic got huge games from Anthony Black and Desmond Bane to help pace them through the game. And Jalen Suggs' return helped wear down Stephen Curry and set the tone for the team defensively.

Orlando is getting back to its identity and the wins are coming after it.

The Orlando Magic's ambitions for the season may rest on Anthony Black's development. He has shown plenty of improvement and promise early in the season. But his flaws and inconsistency are still costing the team in critical moments, like the end of Sunday's loss to the Houston Rockets.

Statistically, the Magic tend to go how Black's shooting goes. That makes him a vital player who could lift the Magic's ceiling or keep them struggling to reach that potential.

Black will be key to powering the team's struggling bench, especially with Tyus Jones continuing to struggle...

The Orlando Magic fell in overtime to the Houston Rockets despite missing Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs. They look more and more like the team everyone imagined they could be.

But even though they led for most of the game, several key details were missing that cost them in the fourth quarter and overtime. The Magic's offense continued to slow down at critical junctures and missed free throws, particularly a miss late in regulation by Anthony Black, kept the door open to lead to a loss to a championship-caliber team.

Orlando is still working on...

The Orlando Magic edged out the Brooklyn Nets thanks to a pair of clutch 3-pointers from Franz Wagner and an 11-0 run that rescued the game.

Orlando was happy to survive this scare and score the victory. But they were unahppy for all the mistakes they made and their failure to play up to their exacting standards. If the Magic are the team they think they can be, they will have to play with more precision and focus.

Still, gutting out a win is a valuable skill too. The Magic will take every win they...

The Orlando Magic brace for a pivotal stretch as Paolo Banchero suffers a left groin strain and will miss at least one game -- and probably more.

Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane will have to step up and take on a bigger role to help the Magic stay afloat and continue growing. The Magic proved they could do it last year.

Ryam Kaminsky of Orlando Magic on SI joins the show for part two of our conversation to break down how the Magic's attack is changing and how the Magic can continue to evolve their...

The Orlando Magic will be without Paolo Banchero for at least one game -- and probably longer -- as an MRI confirmed that he strained his groin.

All eyes turn to Franz Wagner then to lead the team like he did last year. The Magic are prepared to handle Banchero's absence thanks to that run last year. And it could be good for getting Wagner and Desmond Bane going after slow starts to the season.

The Magic have started to find their identity and their way after starting 1-4 this season. Ryan Kaminski of Orlando...

The Orlando Magic silenced their critics and a lot of noise with a commanding 124-107 rout of the New York Knicks on national TV.

The Magic re-established their defensive identity and stifled a powerful Knicks offense, using that to power their own scoring and race ahead in the middle two quarters.

After struggling through the first weeks of the season, the Magic have started to find some rhythm and pick up wins. They have changed their narrative over the course of the past two weeks to reclaim a spot among the East contenders.

...

The Orlando Magic edged past the Portland Trail Blazers to improve to 4-2 in their last six games. The team appears to have turned at least a minor corner to pick up wins and gain ground in the early part of the season.

But it still does not feel like the team is where everyone thinks it should be. There are still a lot of mistakes and flaws for the team to clean up. It was evident in that win on Monday as the Magic had to scramble to preserve the win with a buzzer-beater.

...

The Orlando Magic escaped the Portland Trail Blazers thanks to a dramatic buzzer-beating three from Desmond Bane. Can this be a turning point for him and the Magic in the beginning of the season?

Bane has struggled to start the year and even struggled to find three-point shots. The Magic came out determined to get him going and he took his share of shots, leading the team for long stretches with 22 points and seven assists.

The Magic as a group need to continue to find their togetherness. They put together some truly great stretches before...

The Orlando Magic gave away their chance to sweep the Boston Celtics as turnovers once again gutted the Magic and slowed their offense to a crawl.

Orlando's 17 turnovers led to 29 Boston points and it was the only thing an angry Jamahl Mosley wanted to mention after the game. The Magic have been one of the worst teams in the league at protecting the ball and it continues to derail their progress as they try to live up to their lofty expectations.

Every problem the Magic has springs from this turnover issue. And Orlando will not...

The Orlando Magic rediscovered their hard-nosed identity, toppling the Boston Celtics 123-110. Could this statement win ignite their season?

The Magic used a balanced offensive attack that moved and shared the ball to finally get their breakthrough and power a solid defensive effort.

But it was the team finally responding to adversity that changed things. After giving away their lead, they answered with a dominant fourth-quarter run to put some distance between them and the Celtics and score the victory.

00:00 Lack of Grit and Resilience

08:09 "Magic Learning While Winning"

13:42...

The Orlando Magic's Paolo Banchero has been a lightning rod for criticism throughout his career and especially early in the season as the Magic have struggled. But during the Magic's road trip, Banchero found a way to impact games and evolve his play in unexpected ways.

Paolo Banchero’s recent surge—highlighted by rebounding, assists, and defensive stats—shows he’s evolving beyond just scoring, even as critics question his shooting efficiency. Banchero has been playing like a star even if the league is choosing to ignore it. Can he power the Magic back into contention?

00:00...

The Orlando Magic face mounting pressure as they struggle to start the season. Jamahl Mosley's future is under fire among fans as the team fails to meet expectations.

This season was always going to focus on Jamahl Mosley and his ability to help the offense grow. The team's emphasis on pace has had some positives for the team, but also some major drawbacks, as the team has struggled to re-establish its defense.

Mosley needs to find a way to get the team to start clicking and come together quickly to not only advance this season...

The Orlando Magic fell to the Atlanta Hawks 127-112 as they again struggled to step to the plate on national TV. Their familiar issues of turnovers, fouling and inconsistent defense plagued them as they collapsed again.

The Magic missed shots, and that seemed to be the catalyst for the team's frustrations and collapse once again. It is part of a pattern against quality competition that is holding the Magic back early in the season.

So how do they fix it? That is a much more complicated question and one the Magic must answer to reach...

The Orlando Magic are trying to right the ship after a 3-4 start. But the underlying numbers tell a story of a team that is going to come together and succeed.

The Magic's starting lineup is one of the best lineups in the league at the beginning of the season. That is a sign the Magic should be fine in the long run. This is the backbone for the team.

There are still plenty of questions the Magic have to answer. Anthony Black has been inconsistent to start the season in a larger role. And...

Almost the entire NBA world has been overreacting to the Orlando Magic's early-season struggles. The team appears to be coming out of the early-season slump, and several key players are putting to rest some early criticisms they had faced.

Paolo Banchero is often criticized for his efficiency and shot selection. But in the last four games, he has been a terror with his career-best true shooting percentage and efficiency numbers.

Similarly, Wendell Carter is not considered a strong defensive big. But the numbers show Carter's defense has been stout and his offense has come around.<...

The Orlando Magic demolished the Washington Wizards 125-94 as both Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner lived in the paint and dominated the interior.

The Magic have begun to put their vision together, playing better in transition and working inside out to get better shots and shots at the rim. More importantly, their defense is helping generate a lot of their offense as they dominated two inferior opponents to snap their losing streak.

The team has started to find its formula more and have a better understanding of the pace and tempo they need to play.<...

The Orlando Magic snapped their four-game skid with a dominant 123-107 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.

At long last, they returned to their disruptive defensive identity to slow down the Hornets and control the game's tempo. That enabled the Magic to set up their offense and get everyone involved as the offense overpowered the Hornets.

Paolo Banchero was key to all of this as the hub of activity. He nearly poured in a triple-double and facilitated the movement throughout the offense before closing the door in the fourth quarter.

The Magic are certainly...

The Orlando Magic have a lot of questions to ask themselves again as their defense collapsed in a crushing and embarrassing 135-116 loss to the Detroit Pistons.

Once again, the Magic struggled to keep up their defensive intensity, parading the Pistons to the line all while their offense floundered in the second half after a strong showing in the first half.

It is time for some serious soul-searching for Jamahl Mosley and his team as the Magic faltered again and let go of the rope, forsaking the identity that built the team into a juggernaut.<...

The Orlando Magic have stumbled to a 1-3 start as they have struggled to execute their fast-paced offense. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner offered differing views on how to get the team to fix it.

Wagner said he still has faith the team can come together and the pace will be good for them in the end. Banchero urged the team to find more structure and not simply run to run.

The reality is that running and getting out in transition has helped the Magic in their best moments. And the numbers support the Magic...

The Orlando Magic's defensive woes finally broke as the Philadelphia 76ers torched the Magic in a 136-124 victory. Orlando's identity is built on its defense. And without being able to rely on it, the team is struggling to find its way early in the season.

All of the big problems the Magic have are completely in their control -- whether it is the defense, the turnovers or the missed free throws. That is the frustrating part for the group. They clearly have the talent and the ability to be the team they expected to be.

...

The Orlando Magic acquired Desmond Bane to help solve their offensive issues. But the last six quarters shows there are still some bad offensive habits to break.

If Orlando wants to make the most of their new player in Desmond Bane, they need to break these habits and start moving the ball more. It comes with experience and trust. And the Magic are lacking both right now, holding them back.

Orlando also needs to reduce their mistakes and turnovers if the team wants to get its offense moving again.

The Magic will have...

The Orlando Magic's shooting woes returned once again in a 110-98 loss to the Chicago Bulls. It is once again the defining issue as they made only three of 24 attempts in the game, following a poor second half in Friday's game.

If the Magic are going to run and play at the pace, if they are going to compete in the East, they need to make shots. Without shooting, there is no chance this thing will work.

Right now, the Magic are struggling to come together and part of that is they are still mixing...

The Orlando Magic stumbled against the Atlanta Hawks with a 111-107 loss thanks to points left on the board at the foul line and with turnovers.

But it is also still clear the Magic are learning how to play together and finding their groove on offense. The team got stagnant in the second half after a stellar offensive first half. Their new style on that end is still a work in progress.

It is especially a work in progress for Paolo Banchero who struggled once again to find his footing after a rough shooting opener...

A day after the Orlando Magic's opening night win over the Miami Heat, what do we know about this team? The first game brought a lot of noise and trends that may not continue.

But the team's focus on pace has indeed stuck. Orlando played its highest possession game in six years. The team was also much more effective scoring in transition and off of turnovers.

It is all good signs for the team's offense. If that is something that will continue, then we may need to change what feels normal for this team.

The Orlando Magic were on the ropes in their season opener against the Miami Heat. But in every critical moment, the team passed the test and found a way to make the play to win the game.

The Magic were not themselves as they struggled on defense in a 125-121 victory to open their season. But they did enough to get the win.

A big thanks goes to the return of Jalen Suggs. He delivered several big plays, including the go-ahead basket in the fourth quarter, that pushed the Magic to the victory. His presence...

The Orlando Magic open their 2025-26 season against the Miami Heat as they eye a deep playoff run this season.

It all starts with that first game and first step on the long journey this season. Can the Magic establish their dominance in the Eastern Conference from the jump? What impact will Desmond Bane have on the Magic's offense? Are Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner ready to star and lead the Magic deeper into the Playoffs?

Their first challenge comes from the always difficult and disciplined Miami Heat. The in-state rivals will provide a tough...

The Orlando Magic's offense surged throughout the preseason, providing some hint that they could end their long offensive drought. Is this the year they break through? Was that preseason surge real?

The Magic showed a lot during the preseason, but there is still a lot that is uncertain as the team begins its season. What was real from the Magic's perfect preseason? What should still be concerning?

0:00 Intro: Preseason recap and factor or fiction

5:07 Magic's offensive improvements in preseason

10:16 Analyzing defensive performance and expectations

15:22 Standout players: Wendell Carter and...

The Orlando Magic's 2026 season has arrived! It comes with big ambitions and goals for the upcoming season. Will the Magic secure homecourt advantage and advance deeper into the Playoffs?

What other bold moves will the Magic make and what else can they accomplish as they try to force their title window open?

On today's episode, I make my bold predictions for the upcoming season and try to predict how far the Magic will go.

0:00 Intro: Game week predictions for Magic season

5:45 Magic to accomplish last year's goals

7:47 Paolo and...

The local experts from the Locked On NBA Channel kick off the Locked On NBA Squad Show East by breaking down which team the Eastern Conference runs through after major injuries to the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers. Join Nick Angstadt, Tony East (Locked On Pacers), Gavin Schall (Locked On Knicks), Philip Rossman-Reich (Locked On Magic), David Ramil (Locked On Heat), and a cameo from Matt Moore (Locked On NBA) as they debate if the New York Knicks or Cleveland Cavaliers are the true favorites, analyzing their playoff track records, roster upgrades, and coaching changes. The conversation explores how Or...

The Orlando Magic raced past the New Orleans Pelicans to finish their preseason undefeated.

In doing so, they showed all of their potential, including their stunning new-look offense. Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero dominated and looked ready to start the season as the Magic's passing attack has changed their ceiling.

But there are still some concerns as the team's defense has not rounded into its elite form yet. The Magic were able to outscore the Pelicans this time, but they have to clean up some things before the games count next week.

0:00 Intro...

The Orlando Magic are aiming to be championship contenders sooner than later. Is later this year?

Kevin Pelton of ESPN detailed a wild simulation of the season that saw the Magic lift the Larry O'Brien Trophy this season. How far-fetched is that scenario? Not as crazy as it might seem.

The Magic's championship window is opening, if not open already, and it is on them to prove that they are walking the path toward a championship.

0:00 Intro

3:41 Magic predicted to win NBA championship?!

7:47 Why fans are excited for this...

Jalen Suggs took a giant leap toward his return as he participated in contact 3-on-3 drills at practice Tuesday. Could he make his mark and return for opening night next week?

This is certainly good news after it seemed like Suggs was still struggling to take this important step and be ready for the season. It is a good sign as the Magic prepare for their final week before the season starts.

The Magic are indeed deep in preparations. Their practice Tuesday was one of the best they have had all camp. The competition increased...

There is not much intrigue in training camp over roles and rotation. The Orlando Magic know who their nine- or 10-man rotation should be this season when they are healthy. The preseason has been more about establishing and clarifying those existing roles ahead of the season.

There is still something to prove, however.

Jett Howard has made the most of his minutes, getting some extended time with the starters and rotation players and showing signs of defensive improvement to get him a look. Jonathan Isaac is also looking healthy and more active on defense. But...

The Orlando Magic have struggled on offense for much of the last decade. The path to their improvement has always leaned on their improving on that end.

So they have added key players but also changed their offensive mindset, focusing on pace and running more to improve their offensive fortunes.

Their three preseason games have shown this mindset take root. They are improving on offense and have shined in the preseason. The Magic have one of the best offenses in the preseason so far. Orlando perhaps has taken a key step forward.

But...

The Orlando Magic blew past the Philadelphia 76ers in the second half for a 30-point win in their second preseason game. But there is tons to work on as the Magic prepare for the regular season.

The Magic's new fast-paced offense continues to show loads of promise. It has come together to give the Magic a clear boost. But the team is still getting it all together and making mistakes that will hurt the team when the games count.

The good news is then that it does feel like the Magic have an extra gear...

The Orlando Magic are nearing the end of training camp as their preseason schedule resumes. The team is previewing who has stood out and who could be due for a larger role.

It is no surprise that Tristan da Silva has been one of the standouts from training camp the past two weeks. He had a strong run at EuroBasket and has carried that momentum into camp. He was one of the standouts of the preseason opener and should have a role for the team.

The other player who has gotten mentioned as a standout...

Orlando Magic fans had to wait a little longer for the debut of their new-look team. Franz Wagner sat out the preseason opener as the Magic manage his return from EuroBasket.

But Wagner is eager to get out on the court and it seems that return is imminent with two preseason games this weekend. The Magic are nearly at full strength.

This season faces a lot of unique pressures. Paolo Banchero has his max contract now and the pressure is on him to lead the team to their next stage and make good on the...

The Orlando Magic are not talking openly about their playoff goals and ambitions like they were last year. The team knows it will be playing deeper into the season this year, nevertheless. And so the team is focusing its training camp on the journey and not the destination. They are looking to build their foundation in this camp that will last all the way to May and June.

The Magic have taken some battle scars in the Playoffs after last year's frustrating season. That maturity will also help propel the Magic into a stronger season this year.<...

The Orlando Magic are aiming to accelerate their offense and play at a faster pace. Will that transform their offense and boost them into contention in the NBA?

The team's talk throughout training camp has been on this desire to pick up their pace to try to improve their offense. The team finished last in pace last season and failed to convert in transition off the turnovers they created.

Will a faster pace, more fast breaks and more speed on offense lead to the breakthrough the Magic have long sought?

0:00 Intro: Pace is...

The Orlando Magic had a solid showing in their preseason opener as newcomers Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones began to show why the Magic coveted them so much and believe they can change their team.

Bane and Jones have also fit in off the court as leaders. Even though they are learning how the Magic operate and what they want to do. Orlando empowers their players to add to the team and lead. Bane and Jones have spoken up throughout camp to lend their playoff experience and more this season.

0:00 Intro: Magic's newest players' first...

The Orladno Magic showed flashes of their potential in the preseason opener against the Miami Heat as they rallied in the second half to score the win.

The starters showed they can put the pieces together and improve as they continue to play together with Desmond Bane making a solid debut and Paolo Banchero starring on defense.

The team's potential for growth was seen most in Jase Richardson, who turned from a rookie into the catalyst for the Magic's victory. Richardson scored all 13 of his points in the third quarter as he suddenly clicked with...

Orlando Magic rookies Jase Richardson and Noah Penda are making waves in training camp. But both have a lot to learn to crack the rotation and contribute this season.

Both players have been eager to learn. That is the first step. The next step is playing with energy and contributing on defense, the key to any player getting time for the Magic this season.

They will get their chance as the Magic open their preseason Saturday against the Miami Heat. It will be an early test and checkup on the Magic's identity and the changes...

Who will tip the scales for the Orlando Magic this season? While the Magic's stars are expected to lead the way and take a step to lift the Magic, the difference between a contending team and merely a good playoff team are key role players stepping in and starring in their roles.

Anthony Black, Wendell Carter and Tyus Jones all face crucial questions this season. And the Magic will need all three to play with confidence and aggression to fill their roles and help lift the Magic deeper into the postseason.

Will these role players...

The Orlando Magic opened their training camp as they always do, by getting back to basics. As critical as the Magic need to improve their offense, their identity starts on defense. And they are spending the early days of practice making sure this foundation is strong as they build for the rest of the season.

That does not mean the offense is getting some short shrift. Coach Jamahl Mosley has a plan to help boost the offense. It is not just about scoring more points or making more threes. It is about playing faster, getting out in...

The Orlando Magic started a new day as they look forward to the 2026 season at Media Day on Monday. The Magic have high expectations for the season, believing not only that they will make the playoffs but advance deep into the postseason.

The anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable as Jeff Weltman believes his team is ready to turn the corner into contention. The Magic's offseason moves have pushed them into the conversation and they are eager to see how far they can go.

Desmond Bane is a big factor in that. And the...

The Orlando Magic are set to begin their 2025-26 season with major expectations to compete and win in the coming years. Can they make the step to reach new heights?

The Magic have a lot on the line to reach the new heights they are chasing. They need to lean on their defense and improve their offense to be the team that can contend for a championship.

As the season begins, the Magic have a lot riding on this season. But they will still need plenty of players to step up. They will still need...

It's time for another episode of the NBA Squad! Today we are breaking down the Houston Rockets' nightmare Fred VanVleet injury, what we want to see from NBA Media Days, whether or not the Oklahoma City Thunder can take another step up and more!

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The Orlando Magic are aiming high, talking openly about their championship aspirations and dreams and expecting a 50-win season and homecourt advantage in the first round.

That is what has happened with the growth of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner and the acquisition of Desmond Bane.

Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel joins the show to discuss Bane's impact on the team, the heightened expectations for the season and how the Magic become the team they imagine they can be.

We discuss what success is for the season and the big questions for...

The Orlando Magic are aiming to win a championship in the near future. How close are they though? Is this the year they make the leap?

The Magic are hoping to prove they are on the path toward the Larry O'Brien Trophy this season. Meeting those expectations will be tough. But the team is capable and has the talent it seems to make the leap into contention.

All they have to do is prove they are at that level this season.

0:00 Intro: Expectations for Orlando Magic

5:08 Magic's championship aspirations and investments<...

Jalen Suggs went on The Sixth Man Show and gave an update on his return from the knee injury that cut his season short. He is rehabbing and on the court, but his readiness for training camp is still uncertain.

Suggs is vital to the Orlando Magic and their hopes for the upcoming season. He is the head of the snake on defense and an endless source of energy that is essential to elevating the Magic. He could also be a huge 3-point threat for the team as they remake their offense.

Losing Suggs for...

The Orlando Magic have a lot of players due for a bounce-back this season if they are going to take their next step. It starts with Jonathan Isaac, a potentially elite defender rediscoveirng his offense and finding his rhythm on defense after struggling through last season.

He is not the only one playing for a lot this season. Jett Howard has struggled to find his chance in his first two seasons in the NBA. He needs to find a way to earn his opportunity and make the most of it when it comes, or he could find...

The Orlando Magic made a lot of moves to improve the team this offseason. But everything still rests on the improvement from the team's two superstars in Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

This season will see both take a leap individually, but should also see them take leaps in their understanding of how to lead. How quickly they make that leap will determine just how far the Magic go this season.

Both Banchero and Wagner made significant leaps last year. They still have a big jump to make again.

0:00 Intro: Magic's success depends...

Orlando Magic's center position takes center stage as Wendell Carter, Goga Bitadze and Moe Wagner all have proven themselves capable but with something to prove this coming season.

Carter has proven himself vital to the Magic's defensive foundation. But he struggled last year on offense as the Magic need to find shooting to improve.

Bitadze has proven himself a solid fill-in starter, but he is looking for more consistency to take advantage of all of his talents. And Wagner is a walking basket. But he is recovering from a major injury.

The Magic's...

Have the Orlando Magic solved their shooting woes? New additions Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones could be game changers for the team's offense, finally helping the Magic break their streak of offensive ineptitude.

Orlando has desperately needed shooting. They went out and acquired two strong shooters. And they should get a shooting boost from Jalen Suggs' return from injury, too.

Will the Magic's new-look offense propel them to playoff contention?

0:00 Intro: Countdown to Magic training camp

3:35 Desmond Bane's impact on Magic's shooting

8:11 Paolo Banchero's reaction to Bane trade

The Orlando Magic's young players are in the spotlight as the countdown to camp begins. Can Anthony Black, Tristan da Silva and Jase Richardson step into roles for the Magic as they contend for a championship?

Anthony Black has turned in a solid first two seasons. But the Magic are asking a lot more of him this season as their bench took on numerous changes. In his third year, the Magic need to see him bring some offensive consistency to the table.

Tristan da Silva will be trying to build on a positive run at...