Jalen Suggs Sounds Off on Magic Early Season Struggles
The Orlando Magic began the season below expectations, struggling out of the gate with a 1-4 record and several disappointing losses. However, they have bounced back with two consecutive victories before their road trip finale against the Atlanta Hawks.
Early Challenges and Key Performers
Although Orlando was projected to be one of the stronger teams in the Eastern Conference, the performance so far has been inconsistent. Newly acquired Desmond Bane has underperformed, averaging 14.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. Meanwhile, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner continue to lead the scoring efforts.
Jalen Suggs on the Team’s Progress
“It’s coming along pretty well. It’s so easy to look at these things and call them ‘big, glaring problems,’ and then you forget that there’s 70-plus games left…” — Jalen Suggs, via Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel
Despite not being at his best early in the season, Suggs remains confident that the team will find its rhythm as the schedule progresses. His perspective reflects a belief in long-term improvement rather than short-term frustration.
Adjustment in Team Defense
The Magic have made noticeable improvements in practice that are now translating to better defensive play. During their 1-4 start, opponents averaged 122.6 points per game while shooting 48.6% from the field and 36.5% from three. In the last two victories, those numbers dropped dramatically, with Orlando allowing only 100.7 points per game.
Offensively, the Magic have averaged 114.0 points per game with 46.7% shooting from the field and 31.2% from beyond the arc, suggesting progress but leaving room for more consistent execution.
Author’s Summary
The Orlando Magic overcame a sluggish start with renewed defense and optimism, as Jalen Suggs highlights the team’s patience and belief in steady progress through the long NBA season.