With balanced scoring, blossoming stars and strong depth, Magic have high expectations

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Last season: 41-41, lost to Boston in first round of playoffs.

COACH: Jamahl Mosley (5th season, 144-184).

SEASON OPENER: Oct. 22 vs. Miami.

DEPARTURES: G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, G Cole Anthony, G Gary Harris.

ADDITIONS: G Desmond Bane, G Tyus Jones, G Jase Richardson and F Noah Penda.

BetMGM championship odds: 18-1.

The Magic were off to a strong start last season at 17-9 before injuries derailed their season. Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs missed 105 games total. They’re back and Orlando made a big splash in the offseason, adding Bane in a blockbuster trade. They have scoring, depth and a defense that can be elite. If they stay healthy, develop chemistry early in the season and rising players continue to improve, the Magic could make a lengthy playoff run.

The good: Banchero has become one of the NBA’s top stars and is one of the toughest players to guard. Franz Wagner is a premier finisher coming off a career-best scoring season. Bane gives the offense a shooter it needed. Suggs is another playmaker who makes the offense go. Jones is a prototypical point guard. Overall, the defense is elite. Suggs and Wagner are among the best at their positions defensively. Jonathan Isaac and Anthony Black are disrupters when they’re on the floor.

The not-so-good: Injuries have been an issue. The Magic need their key players to be available. Center is the biggest question. Wendell Carter Jr. is a strong rebounder and solid defensive presence but his offense was unreliable as he struggled to stretch the floor, hit 3s and finish at the rim. Moe Wagner is returning from an ACL injury and gives the Magic another option.

Banchero is a blossoming superstar, and Franz Wagner, Bane and Suggs are All-Star-caliber players. Rookie Jase Richardson, the son of former Magic player Jason Richardson, is a shooter with potential. Fellow rookie Noah Penda and second-year forward Tristan da Salva impressed in summer league.

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