With three straight losses, the Magic are still looking for themselves

After a week of competition, Magic it is already in difficulties, although the ambitions are great, and the schedule was not as difficult as possible. The Floridians’ schedule included Miami, Atlanta, Chicago and Philadelphia, that is, the average teams of the Eastern Conference, that is, opponents that the franchise must dominate if it wants to establish itself as a new stronghold.

Except, after the inaugural victory against the Heat, the Magic failed to win another meeting. And the last one, against the Sixersis the most problematic with 136 points received.

“We have to be better at both ends of the pitch”, ad Desmond Banewho blames himself for six fouls with less than three minutes left. “Small things, small details explain our loss. Defense, fouls, offensive rebounds. We talk about it.”

“It’s still early in the season, but that’s no excuse”

Orlando’s defense is currently not up to par, ranking 15th (114.1 points allowed per 100 possessions) among the most efficient in the league. As a reminder, last season Paolo Banchero and his gang were the second best defense in the NBA, behind the Thunder.

“Obviously we are not at the usual level. The defense was not good”laments the interior. “We gave away too many points. That’s what happens when you increase the tempo. Then the teams can run and it leads to communication problems. We have to find solutions.”

Should these three setbacks in a row cause concern? Not for the coach. Especially since the upcoming schedule remains soft, with trips to Detroit, Washington, and Charlotte by the end of the week.

“There is an adjustment time when you add new players to the group, when you implement a new style of play”, assures Jamal Mosley. “Unfortunately, it falls on the wrong side in terms of results. The alchemy will continue to happen with this team. That’s what characterizes this group: resilient, the players will accelerate this process.”

Paolo Banchero is already less patient. “We mustn’t hang our heads. It’s still early in the season, but that’s no excuse. We have to have a real sense of urgency.”calls to the All-Star.