No pushovers here for Raptors: Power Ranking the Southeast Division
By Brian Boake
Apr 10, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo (5) fouls Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Orlando Magic
Say Hello to: Mario Hezonja, C.J. Watson, Jason Smith
Farewell: Maurice Harkless, Kyle O’Quinn
’14-’15 record: 25-57
This team has been rebuilding for several years, with minimal payback so far. While Victor Oladipo has certainly worked out for them, and everyone seems to love Elfrid Payton (I’m not dazzled so far, but he’s very young), some of their picks, like Maurice Harkless, haven’t panned out. Mario Hezonja was drafted #5, and should provide some immediate scoring help. I seldom consider rookies in my forecasts, but this guy was becoming a significant player in the Euro-League, and will get a ton of playing time in the Magic Kingdom.
The organization turfed coach Jacque Vaughan in favour of hardnosed Scott Skiles. That’s a move which will probably pay off eventually, but not this season.
I think they will be better, but nowhere near a playoff spot. They will get shredded by all the high-scoring teams.
Next: 4. MJ's bunch - in the mix?