Orlando Magic 2006-07 Preview
It seems like just yesterday when the Magic were fresh off of signing Grant
Hill and Tracy McGrady and had their future set for years to come. Now, the team
no longer depends on either of the players and are fresh off of another
rebuilding year.
The superstar on the Magic, and the future, is Dwight Howard. Howard is a
monster in the post and looks to be the next best big man in the league. Howard
has averaged a double-double in his first two seasons in the league, and took
the next step last season by showing that he could be a reliable scoring option
as well as a good rebounder. The expectations for him coming into this season
are nothing short than at least 20 points and 12 rebounds a game, and he should
have no problem reaching these numbers.
Next to Howard will be former Piston Darko Milicic. Darko has yet to play a
season with consistent minutes, but should get his chance in 2006. His play in
Europe has excited management and fans alike, but Darko will have to prove that
he can perform in the NBA for the Magic to establish themselves as a playoff
contender.
At the guard positions are young players Jameer Nelson and J.J. Redick.
Redick is a rookie who has to prove that he can do more than just shoot the
three pointer, as his one-dimensional play in college was a reason why he wasn't
drafted higher despite averaging over thirty points a game. Nelson is a quick,
small guard who can explode for points and impressed the sports nation in his
second year in the league last season.
At the small forward position is Hedo Turkoglu. He averaged 14.9 points per
game last season, and should be good for the same amount once again this year.
He is also a veteran player who should be able to mentor fellow European player
Darko Milicic.
Besides their starters, Carlos Arroyo is another player acquired from the
Pistons who could have a good impact on the team. Arroyo is a good point guard
who can make solid passes and get other teammates involved.
For the Magic to be successful in 2006, both Dwight Howard and Darko must
explode onto the NBA scene and form a duo ala Tim Duncan and David Robinson.
While that may happen someday, it probably will not this year. But the future is
bright in Orlando.
