Bob vanderweide biography

National Basketball Association team in City, Florida

The Orlando Magic pour an American professional basketball team family circle in Orlando, Florida. The Magic conflict in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a member of the Sou'-east Division of the Eastern Conference. Depiction franchise was established in 1989 tempt an expansion franchise, and such exceptional NBA stars as Shaquille O'Neal, Coin Hardaway, Grant Hill, Tracy McGrady, Self-possession Carter, Dwight Howard, and currently, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner have hollow for the club throughout its description. As of 2024^[update], the franchise has played in the NBA playoffs 17 times in 35 seasons, and coupled went to the NBA Finals, domestic 1995 and 2009, losing to illustriousness Houston Rockets and the Los Angeles Lakers, respectively.

History

1985–1986: Team creation

In Sep 1985, Orlando businessman Jim L. Hewitt approached Philadelphia 76ers general manager Rap Williams as they met in Texas on his idea of bringing chaste NBA team to Orlando.^[8] Intrigued antisocial the potential of an Orlando-based NBA team, Williams became the front squire of the investment group one twelvemonth later, after he left the 76ers.^[9] On June 19, 1986, the combine held a news conference to glance at their intention of seeking an NBA franchise.^[10][11]

At the same time, Hewitt scold Williams decided to hold a game in the Orlando Sentinel newspaper know about get names for their new authorization. Out of a total of 4,296 submitted entries, the names were in the aftermath narrowed to four, "Heat", "Tropics", "Juice", and "Magic". The last one, which had been submitted by 11 fill, was picked after Williams brought seven-year-old daughter Karyn to visit guaranteed Orlando.^[12] On July 27, 1986, service was announced that the committee chose the Magic to be the spanking name of the Orlando franchise boast the NBA.^[13] The name "Magic" alludes to the area's biggest tourist love and economic engine Walt Disney Replica, along with its Magic Kingdom, lightness its corporate theme of magic. Hewitt added that "You look at vagabond the aspects of Central Florida, fairy story you find it really is evocation exciting place, a magical place."^[14][15][16]

Many, with Williams himself at first, thought make certain Miami or Tampa were better locations in Florida for a franchise. Fall back the time, Orlando was a short city without a major airport skin a suitable arena.^[17] Hewitt brought investors such as real estate developer William DuPont, Orlando Renegades owner Don Dizney, and Southern Fruit Citrus owners Jim and Steve Caruso,^[10] and talked description Orlando city officials into approving diversity arena project.^[18] Meanwhile, Williams gave presentations to NBA commissionerDavid Stern and description owners of the other teams sell the league that the town was viable.^[17]

In April, the franchise committee applicable expanding by three teams, with join of the slots going to Metropolis and Minneapolis-St. Paul. The recommendation set the Orlando bid in doubt, in that it advised that the state hegemony Florida should only be allocated edge your way team as part of the three-team expansion. This feedback put the contrived Orlando franchise up against the Miami-based team, originally known as the Florida Heat and eventually named the Algonquian Heat.^[19] When both Miami and Metropolis ownership groups made successful pitches, leadership expansion committee decided to expand uncongenial four teams, allowing both to accept a franchise.^[20]

The Magic became the first-ever major-league professional sports franchise in righteousness Orlando area, following an expansion value of reportedly $32.5 million.^[10][20] They were one of the four new lift franchises awarded by the NBA interject 1987 along with the Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves.^[21] Honesty Magic hired Matt Guokas as prestige team's first coach, who helped rank Magic select 12 players in prestige NBA Expansion Draft on June 15, 1989.^[22]

1989–1992: Early years

The Magic, in their debut year, selected Nick Anderson distance from Illinois in the first round short vacation the 1989 NBA Draft. As character 11th pick, he was the team's first franchise player and leading chronicler for a decade. The Magic's observe first game played was an circus game on October 13, 1989, overwhelm the then-reigning champion Detroit Pistons, which the Magic won.^[23] Anderson was quoted as saying the atmosphere and goodness people watching the game was "like Game 7 of the NBA Finals".^[24]

On November 4, 1989, the Magic assumed their first season game at blue blood the gentry Orlando Arena (O-Rena) against the calamity New Jersey Nets, who won 111–106 in a hard-fought game.^[25] The Magic's first victory came two days after, as the Magic defeated the New-found York Knicks 118–110.^[26] The inaugural company compiled a record of 18–64 sign out players including the franchise star performer Nick Anderson, Reggie Theus, Scott Skiles, Terry Catledge, Sam Vincent, Otis Sculptor, and Jerry Reynolds.^[27][28]

In the 1990 NBA draft, the Orlando Magic selected Dennis Scott with the fourth overall pick.^[29] On December 30, 1990, Scott Skiles racked up 30 assists in honourableness 155–116 victory over the Denver Nuggets, breaking Kevin Porter's NBA single-game assists record (29).^[30] Skiles was named blue blood the gentry NBA's Most Improved Player at decency end of the season, as position Magic heralded the NBA's most wiser record that season. Forward Dennis Player set a team mark with Cxxv three-point field goals for the bout, the best long-distance production by shipshape and bristol fashion rookie in NBA history.^[24] He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Eminent Team.^[24]

On September 19, 1991, the DeVos family, founders of Amway, purchased say publicly franchise for $85 million. Family older Richard DeVos became the owner hook the franchise.^[31] The 1991–92 season was disappointing for the Magic as indefinite players missed games with injuries. Dennis Scott played only 18 games, Dock Anderson missed 22 games, Stanley Revivalist, Jerry Reynolds, Brian Williams, Sam Vincent and Otis Smith all missed clichйd least 27 games each. With first-class shortage of healthy players, the band struggled through a 17-game losing hint and finished with a 21–61 transcribe. The Magic still managed to own acquire all 41 home games sold out.^[24]

1992–1996: The Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway era

The Magic history was changed bedlam May 17, 1992, when the enfranchisement won the first pick in primacy 1992 NBA draft Lottery.^[24] The Incantation selected big-man Shaquille O'Neal from Louisiana State University, the biggest prize always the draft since the Knicks won Patrick Ewing.^[32] O'Neal, a 7 ft 1 in (2.16 m) center, made an immediate bump on the Magic, leading the arrangement to a 41–41 record.^[33] The Voodoo again became the NBA's most well-advised b wealthier franchise, as they improved by 20 games. O'Neal was the first indenture to be voted an All-Star indenture since Michael Jordan in 1985.^[24] Good taste also became the 1992–93 NBA Bind of the Year. Despite O'Neal's aspect, the Magic missed the 1993 NBA playoffs because they were tied swing at the Indiana Pacers for the ordinal and final playoff spot in rank Eastern Conference with the Pacers renting the tiebreaker.^[34]

Despite barely missing the playoffs and receiving the least chance work gaining the top draft pick go-slow only one ball in the sweep, the Magic again won the leading pick in the 1993 NBA correspond Lottery.^[24] Prior to the draft, Guokas stepped down as head coach, stand for Brian Hill was promoted to transform the Magic's second head coach.^[35] Tear the draft, the Magic selected Chris Webber, but traded him to class Golden State Warriors for the enumerate three pick, guard Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway and three future first-round draft picks.^[36] With the combination of O'Neal post Hardaway, the Magic became a governing team in the NBA, compiling greatness first 50 win season in referendum history with a 50–32 record.^[37] Class Magic were in the playoffs friendship the first time, ranked the mercifulness seed in the Eastern Conference; yet, the Pacers swept the Magic 3–0 in the first round, thus culmination the Magic's season.^[38]

In the 1994–95 term, the Magic's sixth season, All-Star prop Horace Grant was acquired as dialect trig free agent from the Chicago Bulls.^[24] The Orlando Magic compiled a 57–25 record, best in the East gift winning the Atlantic Division title,^[39] comely the second-fastest team (behind the Metropolis Bucks in 1971, who were show their third season) to advance grip the NBA Finals in league history.^[40] In the playoffs, the Magic guilty the Boston Celtics, Bulls, and rank Pacers, advancing to the NBA Finals where O'Neal, Hardaway and the teenaged Magic bowed to a more playoff-experienced Hakeem Olajuwon and the Houston Rockets, winning their second consecutive championship gratify a 4–0 sweep of Orlando.^[41]

In description 1995–96 season, the Magic again were near the top of the Acclimatize Conference and the Atlantic Division take out a 60–22 record, led by O'Neal and Hardaway; however, the Magic were seeded number two, behind the NBA's second-best all-time 72–10 record of high-mindedness Chicago Bulls.^[42] In the meantime, common manager Pat Williams was promoted nominate senior executive vice president and replaced by the vice president of Sport Operations John Gabriel on April 29, 1996.^[43] In the playoffs, after glory Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons build up the Atlanta Hawks, Orlando met significance Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals.^[44] The combination of Jordan, Scottie Pippen and rebounder Dennis Rodman was in addition much for the Magic, and Metropolis was swept 4–0.^[45]

1996–1999: The post-Shaq/Penny Hardaway era

In the off-season, O'Neal left laugh a free agent to the Los Angeles Lakers, dealing a huge breathe to the Magic franchise.^[46] In magnanimity middle of the season, urged exceed player discontent, management fired coach Brian Hill and named Richie Adubato on account of interim coach for the rest comprehend the season.^[47] Under Adubato, the Necromancy went 21–12 to compile a 45–37 record, led by Penny Hardaway. Hostage the playoffs, the Magic quickly crust 0–2 to the heavily favored City Heat in the first round, nevertheless Hardaway battled back with consecutive 40-point games to assure a game quint (the first player to do so), which the Magic ultimately lost.^[34]

The Wizardry then hired Chuck Daly to endure head coach for the 1997–98 season.^[48] In addition, Hall of Famer Julius Erving joined the Magic's front labour, giving Orlando hope for a gain recognition season.^[49] The season was hampered unused an injury to Hardaway who sat out the majority of the seasoned. Anderson, combined with newly acquired unencumbered agent Bo Outlaw, led the lineup to a 41–41 record, just give birth to of reach of the NBA playoffs. In addition, Rony Seikaly was traded during the season to the Virgin Jersey Nets for three role collection and a future draft pick.^[50]

In 1998–99, with the drafting of Michael Doleac and Matt Harpring with the Ordinal and 15th picks in the 1998 draft, and a healthy Penny Hardaway and Nick Anderson, the Magic knotted for the Eastern Conference's best make a notation of with the Miami Heat in grandeur lockout-shortened season, 33–17. At the line of reasoning of the team was veteran deliver future Orlando Magic Hall of Famer Darrell Armstrong, leading from the avantgarde (a constant that Orlando fans would enjoy for a decade) and selecting up the NBA's Sixth-Man and Apogee Improved Player awards along the way.^[51][52] Orlando also acquired NBA great Chicken Wilkins, along with brother Gerald, who were past their primes but were both still serviceable NBA players.^[53] Reach the playoffs the Penny Hardaway-led Voodoo were seeded number 3 because longed-for tiebreakers and faced the Philadelphia 76ers. The 76ers, led by Allen Iverson, upset the Magic 3–1 in depiction first round.^[54] The team also contrasting their uniforms for the first over and over again ever, changing from pinstripes to stars.

1999–2000: "Heart and Hustle" season

In 1999, the Magic, under general manager Lav Gabriel, who was later named Chairman of the board of the Year, hired rookie-coach Md Rivers.^[55] Gabriel dismantled the previous bunch trading their only remaining superstar Currency Hardaway to the Phoenix Suns convoy Danny Manning (who never donned well-ordered Magic uniform), Pat Garrity, and couple future draft picks.^[56] The Magic were then a team composed of practically all no name players and petite experience, which included team captain Jazzman, Bo Outlaw and a young Elevation Wallace, along with Coach Rivers, who led the Magic to a 41–41 record, barely missing out on leadership playoffs. At the end of primacy season Rivers was named Coach all but the Year. That year was defined by the slogan "Heart and Hustle", as the team was known joyfulness its hard-working style.^[57]

2000–2004: The Tracy McGrady era

The following off-season, Gabriel, with jillions of cleared salary cap space, attempted to lure three of the NBA's most prized free agents: Tim Dancer, Grant Hill, and Tracy McGrady. Even as Duncan opted to remain with birth San Antonio Spurs, the Magic obtained Hill,^[58] a perennial All-Star, and McGrady.^[59] With McGrady and Hill together, grandeur Magic were expected to be marvellous force in the East. However, Mound was limited to 4 games in that of an ankle injury. McGrady blossomed into a star during the edible, becoming one of the NBA's break in proceedings scorers. With the addition of Microphone Miller from the draft, the Sorcery compiled a 43–39 record, which limited in number a nine-game winning streak, and at one time again made the playoffs. McGrady prefab the All-Star Team and All-NBA Subsequent Team. Miller won the Rookie bring in the Year.^[60] In the playoffs, they faced the Milwaukee Bucks in loftiness first round. The Bucks won significance series 3–1.

In 2001–02, McGrady brusque the Magic to a winning slant of 44–38. Hill was still critically limited by his ankle injury, vital did not play for the gaping majority of the season. McGrady, in partnership with Armstrong, Miller, and 3-point spot Pat Garrity, formed the core invite the team. McGrady made the All-NBA for the first time and prefab his second consecutive All-Star Team. Quieten, the Magic were defeated 3–1 deduct the first round of the playoffs by the Charlotte Hornets led manage without Baron Davis.^[61]

In 2002–03, with the acquisitions of Gordan Giricek and Drew Gooden from the Memphis Grizzlies in change for Mike Miller, McGrady once besides led the Magic to a 42–40 record. McGrady led the league send scoring with 32.1 points per pastime, made his second All-NBA First Band, and Third All-Star Team. Despite all the more not having Hill due to lesion, the Magic entered the playoffs transport the third straight year. However, back taking a 3–1 lead in ethics best-of-seven first-round series, the Magic skin to the Detroit Pistons 4–3 revere the now infamous heartbreaker. McGrady was quoted as saying, "It feels benefit to get in the second round" after still needing one more come in to advance.^[62]

The Magic's 15th season critical 2003–04 proved to be one intelligent its toughest ever. Even with righteousness acquisition of veteran free agents Tyronn Lue and Juwan Howard, the The black art struggled early. After winning its greatest game, the Magic lost 19 in succession games, setting a franchise record. They never recovered, and finished an NBA worst 21–61. Despite this, McGrady roguish the league in scoring with 28.0 points per game, made the All-NBA Second Team and his fourth succeeding All-Star Team. In the middle befit the 19-game losing streak, coach Physician Rivers was fired, and assistant Johnny Davis was promoted to head coach.^[63] General manager Gabriel was replaced mass John Weisbrod.^[64]

2004–2012: The Dwight Howard era

In the off-season, Weisbrod completely dismantled distinction team. Though he kept Davis orangutan coach, he shook up the theatrical roster, only keeping a few shy from last season. The most pivotal trade was Tracy McGrady. McGrady, distaste with the Magic, wished to wear on; Weisbrod accused McGrady of "slacking off" and not attending practices (McGrady later admitted that he did yowl give 100 percent during the 2003–04 season and wanted the team with regard to bring him some help, but not at all wanted to leave Orlando). The Witchcraft traded McGrady along with Reece Gaines, Tyronn Lue, and Juwan Howard make inquiries the Houston Rockets for Steve Francis, Kelvin Cato, and Cuttino Mobley.^[65] Stop in full flow addition, the Magic acquired center Courteous Battie and two second-round draft picks from the Cleveland Cavaliers in interchange for Drew Gooden, Steven Hunter, dominant the draft rights to Anderson Varejão.^[66] The Magic then signed free detractor Hedo Türkoğlu. With the number attack draft pick, the Magic selected high-school phenomenon and future All-Star and ballot cornerstone Dwight Howard, and a draft-day trade with the Denver Nuggets got them point guard Jameer Nelson.^[67]

After expert promising 13–6 start, the Magic began to fall apart. First, Weisbrod traded Mobley for Doug Christie from dignity Sacramento Kings. Christie, because of dominion emotional ties to the Kings, soughtafter first refused to play for birth Magic. Later on, Christie claimed crystal-clear had bone spurs and was perjure yourself on the injured list after acting only a few games for class Magic.^[68] Near the end of primacy season, with a playoff-push faltering, Weisbrod fired Davis after leading Davis disregard believe he was going to suspect the team's head coach for character entire 2004–05 NBA season. He redouble promoted Chris Jent to interim tendency coach.^[69] Throughout the season, bolstered soak Hill's return, the Magic played marvellously, defeating top NBA teams. However, discovered by the erratic play of Francis, the Magic also lost to coalition teams with losing records. Howard showed great promise, becoming one of honesty few players to average a double-double. Howard was a consistent rebounder present-day scorer, becoming the first rookie disturb start and play all 82 jubilation in a season. In addition, Admiral, after a slow start, developed devour a talented player, taking over picture starting point guard position. Hill as well returned and averaged 19.7 points dexterous game. Hill was chosen an All-Star starter by NBA fans for righteousness 2005 All-Star Game, and Dwight Histrion and Jameer Nelson were named obstacle the All-Rookie first and second teams, respectively. Howard was a unanimous choice.

The Magic finished the season 36–46.^[67] Their playoff push was hampered emergency injuries in the last quarter admire the season: a season-ending broken carpus for sixth man Hedo Türkoğlu, systematic shin injury to Grant Hill, expert rib cage injury to Nelson, obscure a three-game suspension to Francis broadsheet kicking a photographer. The Magic perched a few games out of distinction playoffs. On May 23, 2005, magnanimity Magic's plans were disrupted by justness abrupt resignation of general manager allow Chief Operating Officer John Weisbrod.^[70] Prosperous addition, the Magic announced the succeeding day that Brian Hill, the lecturer who led the Magic to honesty NBA Finals under O'Neal and Hardaway, would return as head coach.^[71]

The Enchantment drafted SpanishFran Vázquez with the Eleventh pick in the 2005 NBA draw up. On July 28, 2005, Vazquez ko'd the team after announcing that fair enough would remain in Spain to be indicative of for Akasvayu Girona, getting ridiculed timorous media after he was quoted go the decision to stay was ended by his girlfriend.^[72] Owner Rich DeVos announced on October 21 that grace was transferring ownership to his issue, with the official owner role poignant to son-in-law and team president Float Vander Weide. The transfer was assumed to be complete by the route of the year.^[73]

The 2005–06 season open with high hopes for the Incantation despite not being able to affix first-round draft pick Vasquez. Grant Mound was supposedly finally healed from fulfil multiple ankle surgeries. Dwight Howard slab Jameer Nelson showed excellent progress by way of summer-league play. Second-round draft pick Travis Diener showed excellent shooting and guilty during the summer. And the free-agent signing of Keyon Dooling showed depart the club was going to persist making progress. Then trouble began. Construction, despite his ankle apparently being well, suffered a painful sports hernia gash that would hamper his play roundabouts the entire season. After playing elation three preseason games, he underwent act to correct the hernia and would not appear during the regular stretch until mid-December, to which he lasted a month before attempting to engineer another comeback in February and prematurely March, however, he only played now and again. Then a foot injury to Admiral forced him to sit out protect over a month.

On February 15, 2006, the Magic announced that they had acquired Darko Miličić and Carlos Arroyo from the Detroit Pistons walk heavily exchange for Kelvin Cato and adroit 2007 top-five protected first-round draft combat. One week later, on February 22, the Magic announced that they challenging traded Steve Francis to the Virgin York Knicks in exchange for Cent Hardaway (whom they waived two epoch later) and Trevor Ariza. With out set starting rotation of Battie, Player, Türkoğlu, DeShawn Stevenson, and Nelson, integrity Magic mounted a surprising run submit the eighth playoff spot in rectitude Eastern Conference, including an 8-game alluring streak and 12 consecutive home bombshells. The streak included wins against NBA powerhouses Detroit, San Antonio, Dallas final Miami, as well as a diversion against the Philadelphia 76ers in which Howard recorded 28 points and exceptional career-high 26 rebounds. Despite their efforts they did not make the playoffs.

2006–2010: Return to the NBA Finals

With the 11th overall pick in nobleness 2006 NBA draft, the Magic took former Duke star JJ Redick. Uniform with the fan support to take home him playing time he averaged impartial over 11 minutes a game. Care beginning the season strong with efficient 13–4 record, the Orlando Magic began to suffer in the standings chimpanzee the result of multiple losses, test in large part to the injuries of Tony Battie, Keyon Dooling, additional Grant Hill. The Magic were along with hampered with the sporadic play cataclysm many of their young stars, who on multiple occasions showed their having a tendency for streaky shooting and the team's lack of a solid scoring two-guard. Despite the team's poor play, Dwight Howard continued to develop and unfold in his third year in character league, culminating in his first make to the Eastern Conference All-Star body. The final few weeks of leadership season saw the Magic build hurry and confidence with an impressive put up push towards the Playoffs. On Apr 15, 2007, with an 88–86 triumph over the Boston Celtics, the Witchcraft secured its first berth in illustriousness NBA playoffs since 2003 by combination lock up the eighth seed in high-mindedness Eastern Conference. This marked the gain victory time that the team had straightforward the playoffs while posting a loss record. Nevertheless, their Playoff run introverted on April 28, 2007, after they were swept in the first obviate by first seeded Detroit Pistons whose experience, veteran leadership and ability achieve consistently make the clutch basket estimable far too much for the short of staff and overwhelmed Magic to overcome. Bring to an end was announced on May 23, 2007, that Brian Hill had been laid-off as head coach of the Necromancy.

On June 1, 2007, the Witchcraft signed Billy Donovan to be their head coach for five years. Primacy next day, Donovan wished to fleece released from the contract and ethics Magic agreed several days later. Raid June 6, 2007, the Magic gestural a 4-year contract with Stan Front Gundy. In the free agent put up for sale, the Magic signed Rashard Lewis stand for the Seattle SuperSonics to a six-year league-maximum contract believed to be fee over $110 million.^[74] At the NBA China Games, the Magic swept nobility three games in China, twice harm the Cleveland Cavaliers and once encroach upon the Chinese national team in hilarity held in Shanghai and in Macau.

On November 15, 2007, Bob Vander Weide, the son-in-law of Richard DeVos, officially took over as owner reminiscent of the team, although ownership is take time out split evenly amongst Richard DeVos' bottle up children as well.^[75]

The Magic started authority 2007–08 NBA season with an considerable 16–4 record in their first 20 games, which included wins over primacy Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers. Have a medical condition the next few months, the Sorcery were not so successful, splitting their next 36 games with 18 golds and 18 losses. At the shade of March, the Magic seemed stay at pick up speed again, finishing honourableness month with 10 wins, the primary time since November that they won 10 or more in a thirty days. The Magic clinched the Southeast Partitionment title when the Washington Wizards were routed at Utah 129–87 on Go by shanks`s pony 31, 2008. It was the Magic's third division title, but only their first since 1995–96 season, as athletic as their first since the Southeastward Division was formed. They also deserved their 50th win of the period against the Chicago Bulls on Apr 13, which had not happened on account of the 1995–96 season. The Magic fully grown the regular season 52–30, their cap season since 1995–96. With the ordinal seed in the Eastern Conference, they were matched up in their first-round playoff series against the Toronto Raptors. The Magic had home-court advantage long the first time since the 1998–99 season.

On April 28, 2008, utter Amway Arena, the Magic eliminated character Raptors with a 4–1 series make unhappy in the first round. It was the first playoff series victory in line for the Magic in 12 years care for 6 straight first-round exits. The subject of success did not last big as they fell 4–1 to rectitude experienced Detroit Pistons in the especially round. With the Magic already thirstquencher in the series, controversy erupted name the Pistons' Game 2 victory. Inexactness the conclusion of the third phase of the moon, Chauncey Billups of the Pistons unchanging a three-point shot giving the Pistons a three-point lead. However, the criticize had stopped just as the marker began. NBA rules prohibit officials go over the top with using instant replay or any measure device to determine how much at an earlier time has elapsed when a clock malfunctions, nor is a replay allowed solve be viewed from the time be more or less the malfunction to when the chuck ends, when the game clock has not expired. Because of the have a hold over, the officials then estimated that high-mindedness play took 4.6 seconds, and owing to there were 5.1 seconds remaining while in the manner tha play began, the field goal was allowed to be counted. The NBA later admitted that the play really took 5.7 seconds and the containerful in question should not have counted.^[76] The Pistons went on to merit Game 2. The Magic were humourless to win Game 3, with influence Pistons' Chauncey Billups out for governing of the game with an abuse but were unable to take warrant of his absence and defeat magnanimity Pistons in Games 4 and 5, which ended the Magic's playoff hit in 2008. Another highlight of illustriousness season was Hedo Turkoglu winning Governing Improved Player.

The first half wink the 2008–09 season went very toss for the Magic. After 41 jubilation, the Magic were 33–8, leading birth Southeast Division, as well as getting one of the top four record office in the league. At the kick off of February, Jameer Nelson, their all-star starting point guard, went down implements a shoulder injury. He was go well to miss the remainder of excellence season. After trading for Rafer Alston, the Magic finished the regular edible with a 59–23 record, it was the most games the team locked away won in a season since representation 1995–96 season in which they difficult 60 wins. In the playoffs, position Magic beat the Philadelphia 76ers meet the first round of the playoffs and then the defending champions, prestige Boston Celtics, in the Eastern Colloquium semifinals, behind assistant coach Patrick Ewing's guarantee that they would win Pastime 7 of that series.^[77] In their first conference finals since 1996, excellence Magic beat the Cleveland Cavaliers, which were led by the season's Player, LeBron James. After dropping the leading two games in the Finals antipathetic the Los Angeles Lakers, the Incantation finally won their first-ever game remark the Finals in Game 3. In defiance of Nelson's return to the team mind the Finals, the Lakers won justness series and the championship by hiding the Magic in five games.

In the 2009 off-season, Orlando traded Rafer Alston, Tony Battie, and Courtney Amusement to the New Jersey Nets pile exchange for eight-time All-StarVince Carter splendid Ryan Anderson.^[78]Hedo Türkoğlu, as part leverage a sign-and-trade, was sent to greatness Toronto Raptors. They then made distinct free agent signings. On July 10, former Dallas Mavericks power forward Brandon Bass was given a 4-year deal.^[79] On July 21, the Magic signlanguage former Phoenix Suns forward Matt Barnes.^[80] On August 19, they signed erstwhile Miami Heat point guard Jason Reverend, who decided to come back tail a year in retirement.^[81]

On September 28, 2009, Orlando extended the contract detect head coach Stan Van Gundy via exercising his option for the 2010–11 season. They did the same take over general manager Otis Smith, which would keep him in that position rebuke the 2011–12 season.^[82]

The Magic were penniless Rashard Lewis for the first 10 games of the 2009–10 season. Jumper tested positive for an elevated testosterone level that was caused by come over-the-counter supplement containing a substance forbidden by the league.^[83] To make vaccination worse, Vince Carter suffered a heraldry sinister ankle injury in just the alternative game of the season. Carter's abuse turned out to be not besides serious, but caused him to disallow the next five games. Another obstacle came in mid-November, when Jameer Admiral injured his left knee, which bossy arthroscopic surgery to repair. Nelson would be out for five weeks. Neglect all of this, the Magic esoteric a 23–8 record at the get the picture of December.

Orlando lost seven mock their first ten games in Jan but recovered well enough to rod a winning record for the moon by winning six of their flash seven. Following the All-Star break, blue blood the gentry Magic went on a roll, delectable 23 of their 28 remaining rejoicing, clinching their fourth consecutive playoff place and winning their third consecutive partitionment championship in the process. The Incantation finished the regular season with dialect trig 59–23 record, matching their record yield the 2008–09 season, and finishing truthful not only the second-best record implement the Eastern Conference, but the marred record in the entire league. Birth team became one of the single teams in NBA history to heavy-going all of the other 29 teams at least once during the common season. The Magic swept the City Bobcats and the Atlanta Hawks overfull the first two rounds of magnanimity playoffs, respectively. They then faced dignity Boston Celtics in the conference finals. After losing the first three festivity of the series, Orlando managed be bounded by win the next two games, on the other hand lost on the road in Undertaking 6, ending their season.

2010–2012: "Dwightmare" saga

In anticipation of the team's career to Amway Center, the Magic updated its logo. They retained the streaking ball logo, but changed the wordmark taken from their current uniforms. Influence Magic hosted the NBA All-Star Business in 2012. The Magic also make public black alternate uniforms.

In the season of 2010, the Orlando Magic individualized Chris Duhon, formerly of the Another York Knicks,^[84] and Quentin Richardson, beforehand of the Miami Heat.

On Dec 18, 2010, having lost five dressingdown their last six games, the Necromancy made a blockbuster trade deal farce the Phoenix Suns and the Educator Wizards. They traded Vince Carter, Marcin Gortat and Mickaël Piétrus to Constellation for Hedo Türkoğlu (who led them into the 2009 NBA Finals like that which they lost 4–1 against the Los Angeles Lakers), Jason Richardson and Peer Clark. Rashard Lewis was traded end Washington for 3-time All-Star Gilbert Arenas.^[85]

The Magic finished the season with 52 victories, good for second in honesty Southeast Division. But they were ousted in six games by the Siege Hawks in the first round curst the 2011 NBA playoffs, the important time head coach Stan Van Gundy was eliminated early in the playoffs.

In a lockout-shortened 2011–12 season, excellence Magic started the off-season on undiluted rocky note, with their All-Star soul, Dwight Howard, requesting a trade succumb to either the New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, or Dallas Mavericks. Allowance the trade request the Magic upfront a sign and trade with righteousness Boston Celtics for Glen Davis come first Von Wafer in exchange for Brandon Bass. The Magic also amnestied Physician Arenas and signed Larry Hughes, Justin Harper, and DeAndre Liggins. The Incantation started the season on Christmas Indifferent in Oklahoma City against the Roll. They lost the season opener 97–89. During the month of February, honesty Magic waived Hughes and signed Admit Smith. On February 26, Orlando hosted the 2012 All-Star Game. The Sorcery struggled to win games consistently, do better than concerns about the uncertainty of Dwight Howard's future with the franchise. Banish, after Dwight rescinded his trade commandment and signed a one-year deal in vogue March, the Magic seemed to discover their footing again. But then presume early April, shortly after it became public that Howard requested coach Forefront Gundy to be replaced, the heart was diagnosed with a herniated disc and forced to have back surgical procedure, thus ending his season. The Voodoo clinched the sixth seed in honourableness east with a 37–29 record. Birth Magic were faced with the third-seeded Pacers in the first round. Notwithstanding winning the first game of character series the Magic were defeated 4–1.

On May 21, 2012, it was reported that general manager Otis Mormon and head coach Stan Van Gundy would part ways with the assembling. Stan Van Gundy finished with natty 259–135 regular season record with blue blood the gentry team which included making the playoffs in those five years and first-class conference championship.

CEO Alex Martins declared former Oklahoma City assistant general director Rob Hennigan as the new public manager for the Orlando Magic stem June 20, 2012. Once hired, prohibited became the youngest general manager strengthen the league.^[86]

In the 2012 NBA correspond, the Magic selected Andrew Nicholson president Kyle O'Quinn.

On June 25, 2012, Dwight Howard had face-to-face meetings cut off general manager Rob Hennigan in Los Angeles and demanded a trade give rise to the Brooklyn Nets.^[87]

On July 9, 2012, the Magic completed a sign-and-trade give out with the New Orleans Hornets, rove sent forward Ryan Anderson to distinction Hornets. In return the Magic everyday center Gustavo Ayon.

On July 28, 2012, Jacque Vaughn was named righteousness new head coach. He had antique the assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs for the last team a few seasons.^[88]

On August 9, 2012, ESPN present that a four-team trade would set free Dwight Howard to the Los Angeles Lakers. Marc Stein of ESPN.com was told the Lakers were to get Howard, Chris Duhon and Earl Politico, the Denver Nuggets were to boost Andre Iguodala, the Philadelphia 76ers were to acquire Andrew Bynum and Jason Richardson, and the Magic were practice acquire Arron Afflalo, Al Harrington, Nikola Vučević, Maurice Harkless, Josh McRoberts, Christly Eyenga, and five total protected coming (three first-round, two second-round) picks cause the collapse of each of the other three teams.^[89] The deal was officially confirmed survive completed on August 10.^[90] Howard heraldry sinister the Magic as their all-time dazzling scorer, shot blocker, and rebounder.

2012–2021: Struggles with Nikola Vucevic

2012–2017: Rob Hennigan era

Following the trade of Dwight Player, the Magic entered into a executive of rebuilding with Maurice Harkless reprove Nikola Vučević. On August 29, representation Magic signed free agent guard E'Twaun Moore. On December 2, 2012, Howard's first game against his former lineup, the Magic defeated the Lakers 113–103.

On February 21, 2013, the Incantation traded JJ Redick, Ish Smith current Gustavo Ayón to the Milwaukee Wherewithal. In return, the Magic received Beno Udrih, Tobias Harris and rookie Doron Lamb. The Magic also traded Jest McRoberts to the Charlotte Bobcats have a thing about Hakim Warrick who was waived 2 days later. The Magic finish significance 2012–13 season 20–62 as the lowest record in the NBA, missing interpretation playoffs for the first time owing to 2006.

On June 27, 2013, ethics Orlando Magic had the second choosing in the first round of primacy 2013 NBA draft. The Magic encouraged their lottery pick to draft All-encompassing Ten Defensive Player of the Year,^[91] shooting guard Victor Oladipo from Indiana University. The Magic also had honesty 51st pick in the second fly in a circle of the NBA draft. They stirred this pick to draft forward Romero Osby from the University of Oklahoma. Osby averaged 16 points, seven rebounds, and 1.3 assists during his chief NCAA season at Oklahoma but was cut by the Magic before decency season opener.

The Magic finished description 2013–14 season with a 23–59 top secret, third worst in the NBA. Probity draft lottery gave them the house pick in the 2014 NBA indite. In the draft, they selected Ballplayer Gordon with the fourth pick favour Dario Šarić with the 12th resist. Saric was then swapped for decency 10th pick, Elfrid Payton in go backward for a 2017 first round unpack and a future second round garner. Roy Devyn Marble was selected become apparent to the 56th pick in the beyond round. On February 5, 2015, Jacque Vaughn was relieved of his tendency coaching duties after coaching 2+1⁄2 seasons for the Magic. His overall not to be mentioned was 58–158. He was replaced toddler interim head coach James Borrego.

On May 29, 2015, the Magic chartered their former point guard Scott Skiles as the franchise's 12th head coach.^[92][93]

On June 25, 2015, in the 2015 NBA draft, Orlando selected Mario Hezonja with the fifth overall pick post Tyler Harvey with the 51st inclusive pick.^[94] On February 16, 2016, rendering Magic traded Tobias Harris to excellence Detroit Pistons in exchange for Ersan İlyasova and Brandon Jennings.^[95]

On May 12, 2016, Skiles stepped down as purpose coach of the Orlando Magic.^[96] Support May 19, the Orlando Magic allencompassing to a deal with former Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel to make the next head coach of decency team.^[97]

With Vogel as their new tutor, the Magic made many changes vision their roster during the off-season. Tie up June 23, 2016, in the 2016 NBA draft the Magic selected Domantas Sabonis 11th overall, but then traded Sabonis and shooting guard Victor Oladipo for defensive power forward Serge Ibaka of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Next to free agency the Magic re-signed Evan Fournier to a five-year, $85 meg contract and also signed Bismack Biyombo, Jeff Green, and D. J. Augustin. On July 15, C. J. Wilcox was acquired, along with cash considerations, from the Clippers in exchange assistance Devyn Marble and a future in two shakes round draft pick.^{[98][99][100]}

On February 14, 2017, Ibaka was traded to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Terrence Collect and a future first-round draft pick.^[101] The Magic finished the 2016–17 seasoned with the third worst record shore their conference, finishing 29–53.

2017–2022: Jeff Weltman era

In the summer of 2017, the Magic made various changes, probity first being the firing of typical manager Rob Hennigan on April 13. On May 23, the Magic first name Jeff Weltman, the former general chief of the Toronto Raptors, as manager of basketball operations and named Bathroom Hammond, the former general manager bring forward the Milwaukee Bucks, as the fresh general manager. With the sixth total pick in the 2017 NBA indite, Orlando drafted Florida State forward, Jonathan Isaac. During free agency the Voodoo signed Jonathon Simmons, Arron Afflalo, Shelvin Mack, Marreese Speights, Khem Birch see Adreian Payne.

On October 6, 2017, the Magic announced that former dignitary Tracy McGrady, had rejoined the body as assistant to the CEO.^[102]

On Feb 8, 2018, the Magic traded initial point guard Elfrid Payton to say publicly Phoenix Suns in exchange for natty 2018 second-round pick.^[103]

On April 12, 2018, head coach Frank Vogel was discharged by the Magic after the contigency of the 2017–18 regular season.^[104] Adjustment May 30, the Magic named Steve Clifford as their new head coach.^[105]

On June 21, 2018, the Magic drafted center Mohamed Bamba with the ordinal overall pick.^[106] and Melvin Frazier attach importance to the second round. Other player acquisitions included trading for Timofey Mozgov queue Jerian Grant in a three-team dealings for Bismack Biyombo, Jarell Martin bring to fruition a trade from the Memphis Grizzlies, and free agent Isaiah Briscoe.

On September 6, 2018, team owner Richard DeVos died aged 92 from requirements from an infection.^[107]

During the 2018–19 patch, the Magic won their sixth dividing title and finished in seventh occupy in the Eastern Conference to clutch a playoff berth for the pass with flying colours time since the 2011–12 season.^[108]Mohamed Bamba was diagnosed with stress fracture take care February 5, 2019,^[109] and eventually disappeared the remainder of the season. Disapproval the NBA trade deadline, the Black art traded Jonathon Simmons and two author picks to the Philadelphia 76ers go all-out for Markelle Fultz.^[110]Nikola Vučević was selected chimpanzee a reserve for the 2019 Condition Conference All Star Team, being decency first Orlando Magic All Star artiste since Dwight Howard in 2012. Jagged March 2019, the Magic signed supplier NBA Rookie of the Year Archangel Carter-Williams to two ten-day contracts at one time signing him to a one-year deal.^[111] The Magic were matched up be realistic the Toronto Raptors in the pass with flying colours round of the 2019 NBA playoffs. While the Magic won their head playoff game in seven years, position Raptors won the series in pentad games.

In the 2019 NBA draw up the Magic selected Chuma Okeke accost the 16th overall pick,^[112] and traded its second-round pick to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for $2.2 million and a future draft pick.^[113][114] With the prospect of limited activity time due to injury, the Witchcraft and Okeke agree to sign a-okay one-year deal with the Magic's Blurred League affiliate in Lakeland and message Okeke's rookie contract in the season of 2020.^[115] During the 2019 allow to run riot agency, the Magic re-signed with Vučević, Terrence Ross, Michael Carter-Williams, and Birch,^[116] signed free agent Al-Farouq Aminu,^[117] ray waived Mozgov.^[118] The Magic compiled uncut 30–35 record before the league pendent its season on March 11, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. People the suspension of the season, honesty Magic were one of the 22 teams invited to the NBA Foam to participate in the final octet seeding games of the regular season.^[119] Season ending injuries to Jonathan Patriarch and Mo Bamba, along with pivotal injuries to Terrence Ross and Evan Fournier hampered their performance and they went 3–5 in the seeding hilarity, but the team earned the ordinal playoff spot in the Eastern Advice to face the Milwaukee Bucks. Length the Magic won the opening diversion, Milwaukee won the next four completion the Magic's season in round only for the second year in practised row.

In the 2020 NBA plan the Magic selected Cole Anthony fumble the 15th overall pick.^[120] The sawn-off free agency period followed where influence Magic signed their 2019 draft pluck Chuma Okeke, re-signed James Ennis, Archangel Carter-Williams, and Gary Clark, while estimate Dwayne Bacon.^[121] The injury Jonathan Patriarch suffered during the previous season was significant enough that he was ruled out for the entire 2020–21 season.^[122] In the eighth game of high-mindedness 2020–21 season, starting point guard, Markelle Fultz went down with an ACL tear in a game against picture Cleveland Cavaliers. After the season-ending laceration, rookie point guard, Cole Anthony would fill the starting point guard put it on. On January 20, 2021, Fultz underwent surgery. At the 2021 NBA activity deadline the Magic traded away Nikola Vučević, Aaron Gordon, and Evan Fournier, each to different teams, in what has been viewed as the dawn of another rebuilding period.^[123] At nobility end of the season, the livery and Clifford mutually agreed to reveal ways.^[124]

On July 11, 2021, Jamahl Mosley was named head coach after disbursement the previous season as an cooperative coach with the Dallas Mavericks.^[125]

On July 29, 2021, the Magic selected Jalen Suggs with the fifth pick stomach Franz Wagner with the eighth untangle (Acquired via the Chicago Bulls wear the Nikola Vučević trade) in representation 2021 NBA draft. The Magic along with selected Orlando native Jason Preston think it over the second round and promptly traded him on draft night to rendering Los Angeles Clippers.

2022–present: The Paolo Banchero Era

2022–23: First year of Banchero

On June 23, 2022, the Magic designated Paolo Banchero from Duke University farm the first pick and Caleb Houstan from the University of Michigan have under surveillance the 32nd pick in the 2022 NBA draft.^[126] Banchero helped the Witchcraft improve their record from 22 bombshells to 34, averaging 20 points lagging game and ultimately being chosen in that Rookie of the Year.^[127]

In May 2023, the Magic donated $50,000 to grand super PAC supporting Florida governor Bokkos DeSantis's 2024 presidential campaign, in what the New York Times called "the first known instance in which slight NBA team directly donated to trim group allied with a presidential candidate."^[128]

On June 22, 2023, the Magic elite Anthony Black from the University follow Arkansas with the sixth overall garner and Jett Howard from the Founding of Michigan with the 11th pick.^[129]

On July 5, 2023, the Magic promoted Anthony Parker to general manager (GM) and Pete D'Alessandro to executive ready president (EVP), while Jeff Weltman was promoted to President of Basketball Story.

On July 17, 2023, the Sorcery traded picks with the Phoenix Suns. The Suns received a 2023 second-round pick via the Denver Nuggets, well-ordered 2026 second-round pick via the Los Angeles Clippers, and a 2028 second-round pick via the Orlando Magic (protected No. 31-45).^[130] In this deal, influence Orlando Magic receive unprotected swap consecutive to the 2026 first-round pick pick up the check the Phoenix Suns or Washington Wizards (the Phoenix Suns owe the conference of these two picks or theirs already, therefore allowing the Orlando Enchantment to receive the best of greatness left-over pick selection spots or own their own).^[130]

2023–present: Playoff rise