A Magical Overview

Eons ago, I mentioned how Orlando Magic was equipped with the right personnel this ‘07-’08 regular season and were destined to reach the 46-win plateau, thus ensuring them of a spot in the Playoffs. In fact, I actually said a lot of other things about the Magic, and most of them were positive (A Magical Season and Where Magic Happens).

Well, now that their season is finally over after being crushed by the Pistons, here is a short overview of what the Magic have accomplished through the year, as well as other thoughts the team could and should mull over during the off-season.

The progression of Dwight Howard. Nobody questions the fact that D12 is the anchor that mans the team. However, there were still lots of kinks in his game such as a limited offensive repertoire and free throw shooting that prevented him from totally breaking free as one of the cornerstones of the game.

As the first few months of the season took course, it was clear that Howard is ready to break out and become a bona fide star. Leading the Magic to an impressive 16-4 starts with averages of 23 points and 15 boards, Howard appears to be applying for the role of the next Shaq. He obviously prepared himself and elevated his game to a different level, something that great players do. The only problem that Howard consistently encountered during the season was a lack of another big game that somewhat debilitated his abilities because opponents had him as their target in the paint (more on this later).