NBA Season Preview: Orlando Magic
For the last three seasons, Orlando Magic has been a major force in the NBA betting lines, especially in the deep stages of the playoffs. The team finished with a 59-23 record for the past two seasons, and is looking to repeat such results in the 2010-2011 season.
The most notable change for the Magic during the 2010-2011 season is the new home venue. The team will play at the newly constructed Amway Center, which opened in early October 2010. The new venue is better than the older Amway Arena in several ways. For example, Amway Center has a seating capacity of over 18,500, as well as multiple suites, concourses, stores, and much more. The bottom line is that the 2010-2011 NBA betting season will be very different for the Orlando Magic fans, who will enjoy better amenities.
The most notable additions to the Orlando Magic lineup include point guard Chris Duhon and the versatile guard/forward Quentin Richardson. Duhon signed a four year deal that is estimated at $15 million. However, the benefits that Duhon will bring are questionable. He had a mediocre season with the New York Knicks, and it seemed that he didn’t find his role in NYC. There are also some major questions regarding how well Duhon will connect with Orlando’s star players. From the bench, Jason Williams will have to watch the new point guard in town.
Speaking of stars, Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, and Vince Carter will carry the same high expectations during the 2010-2011 season. Last season, the trio averaged more than 49 points per game combined together. Coach Stan Van Gundy is also considering placing Lewis in different playing positions throughout the season. Another interesting fact for this season is the tall and powerful lineup. In fact, 11 of Orlando’s 14 players are above 6’6”, implying that the team will have a very physical style of play.
