Orlando Magic’s preseason reveals promise and lingering concerns

Philip Rossman-Reich writes that the Orlando Magic displayed both high potential and persistent questions during their preseason campaign under new coach Sean Sweeney. In their preseason finale, the Magic defeated the Miami Heat 136-115, highlighted by strong perimeter shooting. Desmond Bane scored 23 points while hitting seven 3-pointers, and Paolo Banchero led the scoring with 24 points to show the offense's improved spacing and volume.

However, the writer emphasizes that injury risks and defensive lapses remain key worries ahead of the regular season. Orlando saw Franz Wagner leave the game with a sore shoulder, Noah Penda suffer a hamstring issue, and Jase Richardson depart with a sore back. Despite these concerns and early defensive struggles, the team expressed confidence in their tactical foundation moving forward.