Orlando Magic 2019-2020 Press Conference

[false9]

Hello friends. I'd like to begin with a quick look back at last season.

When we were standing here last year, I told you it was title or bust for our team. After 66 wins and three consecutive series where we were pushed to the limit, we were finally able to lift the trophy. It was a great feeling, and I'd like to give everyone a sneak peek of our championship banner.

Wait, that banner just "404 error: file not found." We'll check with someone in the league office about this.

After the champagne went flat and the championship hangover started sinking in, we realized the payroll was unsustainable with a repeater tax in effect. While our hearts wanted to bring the band back for another run, we made the decision to trade DJ, James Harden, and Paul George.

We've reloaded our cupboard with some draft picks and we still have Dario Saric and Marcus Smart from last year's starting five. Joining them will be future Hall of Famer Chris Bosh, pacey guard Dennis Schroeder, and a combination of Russell Arciniega and page breaker Luc Richard Mbah A Moute. With this group, I think we can contend for the eighth seed in the East, but if things don't look promising, I won't be afraid to spin off the veterans for more assets.

I'll take your questions now.

[78#]

How hard was it to break up this championship core and start over? Or does the excitement of starting over surpass the disappointment?

[false9]

How hard was it to break up this championship core and start over? Or does the excitement of starting over surpass the disappointment?

It was briefly bittersweet- I would be lying if I said I didn't consider running it back. But pragmatism won out. That being said, I think this can be a fun group. I'm pleased with the roster we've put together and I'm eager to see what Dario can do with more of a workload. Plus, we'll can always nostalgically look up at our title banner.

[Xist2Inspire]

Random Reporter: With the addition of Chris Bosh in Free Agency, do you feel as if you are still a playoff contender, or is this a team in flux?

[false9]

Random Reporter: With the addition of Chris Bosh in Free Agency, do you feel as if you are still a playoff contender, or is this a team in flux?

I think we can be in the mix for the 8th seed. Chris had a nice preseason and looked very productive. Admittedly, it will be tough, as there are numerous playoff contenders. If things don't look promising, expect some players to be on the move.

[garbageman]

Do you think PF is the best fit for 6'5" Russell Arcineaga or do you plan to play him in multiple spots?

[false9]

Do you think PF is the best fit for 6'5" Russell Arcineaga or do you plan to play him in multiple spots?

He'll also see some time at center. Because of his particular skills, he will be limited to those 2 spots.

[TheSyndicate]

Obviously it's exciting to get a defensive stalwart like Luc-Richard in the offseason. Are you disgusted with the way your team page looks now, or is it just me?

[false9]

Obviously it's exciting to get a defensive stalwart like Luc-Richard in the offseason. Are you disgusted with the way your team page looks now, or is it just me?

When you're a prince who can defend, you can mess up the team page as much as you want.