NBA Preseason Power Rankings: Where do the New Orleans Pelicans land?
By Nick Alvarez
21. Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic are an interesting case. They’ve made the playoffs the past couple of years and everyone always seems to count them out, but this year, the East has improved while the Magic haven’t.
Sure, I liked that the Magic took a chance on Cole Anthony with the 15th pick in this year’s draft, and I think he could form an interesting backcourt with Markelle Fultz, but again that’s interesting, not competitive. Also, the Magic will be without Jonathan Isaac which will hurt their chances to compete in 2021.
20. Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies had an amazing season last year, nearly making the playoffs in Ja Morant’s rookie season, and they should be competing this season too. Taylor Jenkins is an underrated head coach and the players that surround Morant are all young and developing.
I love that the Grizzlies added Desmond Bane and Xavier Tilman Jr. in the draft last season. Their additions could end up being huge on this team next season. The one unfortunate thing about this team is that Jaren Jackson Jr. will miss some of this season after suffering a knee injury in the NBA bubble.