Magic's Starting Five Receives Major Honor In Latest Power Rankings

The Orlando Magic made major improvements to the starting lineup this offseason with the addition of Desmond Bane . He replaces Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who struggled to elevate the offense alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner despite being expected to fill a veteran role. After that experiment fell short, the Magic stopped playing conservatively and went all in. They sent Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and four first-round picks to acquire Bane. Not only is Bane one of th e league’s elite three-point shooters, but he’s also among the best perimeter defenders, making Orlando’s starting lineup one of the strongest in the Eastern Conference and potentially in the entire NBA.

Bleacher Report recently ranked the Magic’s starting five at No. 7, citing their youth and potential to grow into one of the league’s best units.

Starting Lineup:

Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr.

"Injuries to various starters throughout the entire season prevented the Orland o Magic from logging any real time together," Bleacher Report wrote. "Although the four returners were a plus-7.1in 200 possessions. Adding in Bane as an elite three-point shooter (41.0 percent for his career) and secondary playmaker (5.3 assists per game last season) will help boost an offense that was dreadful for most of last year."

"Suggs, Wagner, Banchero and Carter are all a year closer to reaching their primes," Bleacher Report added. "If Wagner can even become an average three-point shooter again (28.9 percent over the last two seasons), this could be one of the best starting fives in the NBA."

Backcourt Duo

If they stay healthy, Suggs and Bane could form one of the NBA’s best defensive backcourts. Both bring a physical, gritty mentality that fits seamlessly into coach Jamahl Mosley’s defensive system. While Bane is expected to elevate Orlando’s perimeter shooting, Suggs could benefit most offensively as opposing defenses focus on Bane, Banchero and Wagner.

Frontcourt Duo

B anchero and Wagner have the potential to become perennial All-Stars and likely would have drawn consideration last season if not for injuries. Their dynamic mirrors the Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown pairing, with both serving as primary ball handlers rather than one deferring to the other. As the Magic chase an NBA Finals berth, both are expected to take another leap toward career years.

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