Mar 21, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) and head coach Jamahl Mosley react during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

'He Will Captain a Significant Leap Forward' – Orlando Magic’s Jamahl Mosley Labeled as the Favorite to Win Prestigious Recognition

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Aug 27, 2025 11:09 AM ET

ESPN recently had Orlando Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley as the leading candidate for the Coach of the Year award in 2025-26, beating out the likes of Quin Snyder, Ime Udoka, Mike Brown, and Mitch Johnson.

According to Ohm Youngmisuk, Mosley is expected to oversee the Orlando Magic’s rise in the Eastern Conference next season, following their shrewd offseason moves, including the acquisitions of Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones.

“Jamahl Mosley was tasked with developing the Magic when he was hired in 2021, and he got a young core to two straight playoff appearances. But now, Mosley has a roster built to make a run at winning the injury-weakened East, and our panel is betting Mosley will captain a significant leap forward and take home Coach of the Year honors,” Youngmisuk stated.

Apr 12, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) reacts after his missed shot against the Philadelphia 76ers during the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

“Orlando is poised to win more than 50 games for the first time since 2010-11 with the additions of Desmond Bane’s much-needed scoring and outside shooting, and Tyus Jones’ steady point guard play to complement Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Health will be vital, especially Jalen Suggs’ ability to return from left knee surgery,” he added.

Orlando Magic predicted to improve their offense in 2025-26

Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report expects the Orlando Magic to take a step up offensively this upcoming season, especially since they’ve never finished above 17th in scoring efficiency since 2011-12.

Feb 29, 2024; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) dribbles the ball against the Utah Jazz in the second quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports

“The trade that sent out five first-round assets for Desmond Bane will help, as will the long overdue signing of a game-manager to run the second unit. Tyus Jones is ideally suited for that role,” Hughes explained.

“Given those upgrades, better health for Jalen Suggs and the likely improvement of lead options Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, it might seem like something special is afoot offensively,” he added.