Magic target 3-point mastery in Eastern Conference journey
The Orlando Magic are gearing up for the upcoming season with a clear objective in mind: to enhance their 3-point shooting capabilities. Despite finishing last season with a respectable 41-41 record, they struggled significantly from beyond the arc, ranking dead last in the NBA with a mere 31.8 percent success rate. This inefficiency put them behind even the Washington Wizards, who, despite finishing with the worst record in the Eastern Conference, managed to hit 33.5 percent of their attempts.
Shooting Woes Highlighted
Zach Buckley, a writer for Bleacher Report, emphasized the urgency of addressing the Magic’s long-range shooting struggles. He pointed out the stark reality of their performance, noting, “The Magic were, objectively speaking, freakin’ awful from range last season. They carried the dubious distinction of sitting dead last in both three-point volume (11.2 makes per outing) and efficiency (31.8).”
The dire shooting numbers have had a ripple effect on the team’s strategy. In response, the Magic have made significant moves, including acquiring Desmond Bane, a player with proven shooting ability, and selecting Jase Richardson with the 25th pick in the recent draft. Buckley remarked that these decisions reflect the team’s recognition of their shooting deficiencies, stating, “Those players—and free-agency signee Tyus Jones—will help, but situations as dire as this aren’t typically taken care of with a couple of tweaks.”
Internal Growth is Key
While new acquisitions bring hope, the Magic will also rely heavily on the internal development of their young core. Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, and Paolo Banchero are critical to the team’s overall improvement. For the Magic to elevate their shooting numbers to even a mediocre level, they will need these players to step up. Buckley added, “If we’re being greedy, any signs of life from 2023 lottery pick Jett Howard would be welcome, too.”
The addition of Bane and Jones undoubtedly bolsters the roster, but the real challenge will lie in fostering growth and consistency among the existing players. If the Magic can significantly improve their 3-point shooting, it could be the catalyst needed for them to ascend the ranks of the Eastern Conference.
Looking Ahead
The Magic are set to showcase their revamped roster in their preseason opener against the Miami Heat on Saturday in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Fans can look forward to seeing if the team’s efforts to improve their shooting translate onto the court, with tipoff scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. As the season approaches, the Magic’s quest for 3-point prowess will be a focal point of their ambitions to rise in the competitive Eastern Conference landscape.
