Comparing the Warriors to the Southeast Division
By Mike Dill
Apr 13, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic small forward Tobias Harris (12) dribbles the ball against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter at the Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Orlando Magic
Prediction: 1-1
Orlando looks as if it is heading toward another lottery pick, but I still have to give them a win against the Warriors. Last season, the Magic were terrible, but they seemed to be the Warriors’ kryptonite. Looking at Orlando’s roster, I don’t see the Warriors losing to them. However, an NBA team can never be counted out and I see the Magic surprising the Warriors one time.
The Magic have a few intriguing talents in Nikola Vucevic, Tobias Harris, and Andrew Nicholson. Vucevic was a forgotten player in the Dwight Howard trade from last offseason, but he turned out to be a great piece for the Magic.
He has a solid offensive game for a young big man and he contended for the rebounding title last season. It is difficult to tell where his ceiling is; he wasn’t even supposed to be a starting-caliber player in the NBA.
Tobias Harris is another player that blew up upon being traded to Orlando. He is an impressive scorer and rebounder. His size allows him to play either small forward or power forward. Harris really helped himself with his play last season and the Magic will be looking to build around him, Vucevic, and Oladipo.