The magic season ends, but the rise begins

ORLANDO – The Orlando Magic head into the offseason following their Game 7 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, but despite the elimination, there is reason for optimism.

After improving by 13 wins from last year and making the playoffs for the first time since 2020, the Magic can leave the season knowing they are moving in the right direction.

Last year, the Magic team went from 22 wins to 34 wins, a sign that while they had the right talent, they may not be ready. This season has proven that they are capable of winning at a high level.

Coach Jamahl Mosley has been preaching a process over results all season, and while the result may not have been what they wanted, the process is well underway. Now the Magic know they can win with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner leading the line, even though the latter struggled mightily in Game 7. Jalen Suggs also proved to be the right direction after taking a big step forward as a long-term building block.

The Magic's goal now is to build on the three. It won't be easy considering changes need to be made to a squad that prides itself on continuity and compassion for one another. This special group will never be the same again. Changes need to be made to improve the squad, but we're not talking about a facelift here. There will be some minor changes to the team as it is hoped that with a little more time and experience between them, Orlando will be one step closer to their goal.

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• GAME 7 SUMMARY: The Orlando Magic's season comes to an end after a Game 7 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. CLICK HERE

• FRANZ SHOOTS WOES: The Orlando Magic will need a great shooting night from Franz Wagner in Game 7 if the team hopes to get past the Cleveland Cavaliers. CLICK HERE

• PAOLO'S HISTORICAL HALF: Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero carries his team in Game 7 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers. CLICK HERE