Orlando Magic -37-29 (2011-12)
The Dwightmare finally ended this off-season as the Magic shipped Dwight Howard to the Lakers for, well nothing. At least, they got nothing and that’s the way the Magic wanted it as they concede to just rebuild the franchise from the ground up.
Their biggest off-season acquisition was getting Arron Afflalo from the Nuggets. Afflalo can benefit from Jameer Nelson’s ability to get to the basket and possibly end up being this team’s leading scorer as they struggle to put points on the board. Moe Harkless was a solid pickup in the draft and the team sees a lot of potential in the 19-year old.
There’s no question about it, things are going to be different without Superman down low. And even without Stan Van Gundy calling the shots, the game plan will probably stay the same, with Turkoglu, Richardson and Harrington jacking up 3s all game. But when your only legit big man is a Baby (no insult intended) who enjoys the midrange game, this team will regress considerably this season.
Key Players: Jameer Nelson, Glen Davis, Hedo Turkoglu
Key Additions: Arron Afflalo
Key Departures: Dwight Howard, Steve Van Gundy
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