How the Magic stack up...so far...

Here are some offensive and defensive number for the Magic and other top teams in the Eastern Conference...

Orlando Magic: 95.7 PPG for, 88.4 PPG against, Magic FG% 46%, Opponent FG% 42%

Miami Heat: 108.3 PPG for, 95.7 PPG against, Heat FG% 51%, Opponent FG% 43%

Chicago Bulls: 97.1 PPG for, 86.6 PPG against, Bulls FG% 45%, Opponent FG% 42%

Boston Celtics: 95.4 PPG for, 93 PPG against, Celtics FG% 48%, Opponent FG% 45%

New York Knicks: 95.8 PPG for, 99.2 PPG against, Knicks FG% 42%, Opponent FG% 47%


The Magic have the second best defense in the league behind our Friday opponent, the Chicago Bulls. It is interesting to note that the other teams on this list play a much faster style game in comparison to the Magic, who rank 27th in Pace, which is total possessions per 48 minutes. The league average is 95.1 possessions per game and the Magic come in at an even 92, while the league leading Heat come in at a whopping 102.6. I wish the Magic would pick up the pace a little more because I feel that our team would benefit with more of a run and gun offense instead of half court sets. With a team that really lacks a player(s) that can create their own shot, the Magic offense can become very stagnant very fast, and with the most athletic big man in the game being off to the races at times and against certain opponents would benefit the team. Lately, though, the Magic have been more reliant on great ball movement and are starting to pick up on the assists, something we have been rather dreadful in the past couple of seasons. Hopefully this consistent, smart, and aggressive style of play can and will continue for the Magic as this young season progresses. Big test against the aforementioned Bulls on Friday, and I can't wait!

GO MAGIC!!!

How do they stack up after these two disasters against Boston? Time to take the temperature after the first of the season, my Magician friends.