Anyone for the Toronto Raptors to worry about from the Southeast Division?

ORLANDO MAGIC

Last season actual: 25 – 57

This season forecast: 31 – 51

Welcome: Mohamed Bamba, Melvin Frazier, Justin Jackson, Isaiah Briscoe, Timofey Mozgov, and Jerian Grant

Farewell:  Bismack Biyombo, Mario Hezonja, and Shelvin Mack

The Orlando Magic are in a similar situation to the Atlanta Hawks.  First and foremost they are looking to develop their young talent.

The difference between the two franchises, is the Magic appear to be a season or two ahead. They finished second to last in the Eastern Conference, however, unlike the Hawks, they are expected to be slightly better than this upcoming season. Please note: Slightly better still is a sizeable distance from playoff contention.

The Magic have also acquired a new coach in veteran coach Steve Clifford after parting ways with Frank Vogel. With a group of such young players, Clifford was brought in as a mentor to teach the proper NBA mindset and defensive approach.

The most exciting piece in the Magic’s season will be exciting rookie Mohamed Bamba who comes from the Texas Longhorns with the #6 overall pick. Bamba has a 7’10” wingspan and has the potential to be a superstar in a few years.

Bamba will join a good young set of post players the Magic have stockpiled. A group that includes Nikola Vucevic, Johnathan Isaac, and Aaron Gordon. It is with these pieces that the Magic will continue to step up the win ladder.