Dwight Howard, who was the face of the Orlando Magic’s most successful era in recent memory, understands how to build a winning culture in Central Florida. While watching from a distance, the former All-Star big man recognizes familiar signs of potential, and he thinks the Magic’s rise is just starting out.
The team is led by All-Star forward Paolo Banchero and 23-year-old standout Franz Wagner. The NBA is noticing the Magic’s presence after a season that saw them win the Southeast Division title and push the Cleveland Cavaliers to a fierce seven-game playoff series. Through savvy drafting and internal development, the young core has begun to display actual flashes of long-term potential.
The team’s recent success is evident as they host a play-in game against the Atlanta Hawks. Howard, who led the team to the NBA Finals in 2009, is optimistic about what lies ahead.
“The Orlando Magic are a year-and-a-half away,” Howard said. “They need just a little cleanup with maybe a vet or two. A vet for the big man and a good vet for the forwards and the wings.”
The Magic’s roster is already full of potential. Banchero, the 2022 No. 1 overall pick, has become a force that can perform both offensively and defensively. The versatility and poise of the 6’10” forward were particularly impressive to Howard.
“Paolo is a big boy,” Howard added. “He can dominate like a Jokic can, but he’s more athletic.”
Franz Wagner, who is now in his fourth NBA season, has consistently made progress in all areas, including scoring efficiently, defending multiple positions, and becoming a secondary creator. Together with his brother, Moritz Wagner, and a team comprised of length, speed, and defensive tenacity, the Magic are building a solid foundation.
Howard is of the opinion that there are a few final pieces that are needed to elevate the team from ‘promising’ to ‘powerful’.
“I would say they just need a little bit more shooting, just to keep everyone honest,” he said. “If they had a five that could shoot, or put Paolo at the five.”
The issue of spacing is still a major concern for Orlando. The Magic, despite their defensive abilities and transition offense, were ranked near the bottom of the league in three-point shooting percentage and attempted shots per game. Banchero, Wagner, and the team’s array of slashers could be exposed if consistent perimeter threats and a stretch big are added.
The Magic’s identity is already taking shape, as previously stated. Head coach Jamahl Mosley has instilled a culture of toughness, accountability, and defense-first basketball, values that align well with Howard’s own playing philosophy during his days in Orlando.
The Magic have won their first season since 2019 and have accumulated playoff experience, making them no longer content with being a rebuilding team. Dwight Howard sees them as hungry, confident, and close to becoming a serious threat in the Eastern Conference.
As the NBA shifts into another postseason, the message from one of the franchise’s most iconic stars is loud and clear: the Magic are on the rise and the league should take notice.
