The Orlando Magic are back on home soil, but their journey to a stronger season is far from over. After a whirlwind European adventure, the team is now laser-focused on one thing: a powerful comeback. But here's where it gets intriguing—can they turn their season around and climb the Eastern Conference rankings? And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about talent, but about consistency and a strong start.
Following a week-long European tour, which included a split series against the Grizzlies in Berlin and London, the Magic returned to their home court at the AdventHealth Training Center. The team, led by coach Jamahl Mosley, regrouped after their travels, focusing on refining their fundamentals and strategizing for the remaining season. German forward Franz Wagner described the trip as an unforgettable experience, shared with teammates Moe Wagner and Tristan da Silva, though he admitted the long week had them eager to return home.
Upon their return, the Magic engaged in a vigorous and physical practice session, showing no signs of fatigue from their travels. As they prepare to host the Hornets (16-27) at Kia Center on Thursday, followed by Cleveland on Saturday, the team is determined to improve their standing. Currently sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 23-19 record, the Magic are just 1.5 games behind the third-placed New York (25-18) and three games behind the second-placed Boston (26-16).
Franz Wagner candidly acknowledged that the team is not where they want to be in the standings, but he emphasized the opportunity ahead. With half the season remaining, the Magic believe they can still prove their mettle. Wagner’s return to the court in Berlin after a 16-game absence due to a left high ankle sprain was a positive step, though the team has missed Jalen Suggs for 14 of the last 16 games, including the last seven due to a right knee MCL bruise. Suggs’ status has been upgraded to questionable for Thursday’s game, offering a glimmer of hope for his return.
Moe Wagner, who was a late scratch in London due to left knee injury management after a lengthy recovery from a torn left ACL, is also showing improvement and was not listed on the injury report for Thursday. While injuries have played a role in the Magic’s recent 5-5 record over the last 10 games, their slow starts have been equally concerning. The team allowed 39 points in the first quarter against Memphis in Berlin and 40 points in London, while the Hornets scored 38 in the first quarter during their 15-point win over Orlando just after Christmas.
The players recognize the need to start games stronger to achieve more consistent performances, especially with only 11 games left before the NBA All-Star break in mid-February. Wagner stressed that it’s a collective responsibility to finish the season on a high note, stringing together wins and finding a rhythm as a team. This begins with focusing on daily improvement and enhancing both offensive and defensive play.
As the Hornets visit on Thursday, the Magic are counting on the energy of their home crowd at Kia Center to fuel their performance. Coach Mosley highlighted the fans’ role in boosting the team’s morale after their overseas trip, but he was quick to add that fatigue would not be an excuse. Is this the turning point the Magic need? Or will their slow starts continue to haunt them? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think the Magic can turn their season around and make a playoff push?
Up next:
Magic vs. Hornets
When: 7 p.m., Thursday, Kia Center
TV: FanDuel Sports Network Florida
