Editing Orlando Magic (section)

==History==
{{more citations needed|section|date=March 2019}}

===1985–1986: Team creation===
In September 1985, [[Orlando, Florida|Orlando]] businessman Jim L. Hewitt approached [[Philadelphia 76ers]] general manager [[Pat Williams (basketball)|Pat Williams]] as they met in [[Texas]] on his idea of bringing an NBA team to Orlando.<ref>{{cite web |title=Hewitt: Banking on a Circle of Friends |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2001/03/12/story8.html |publisher=Biz Journals |access-date=April 23, 2019 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308203940/https://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2001/03/12/story8.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Intrigued by the potential of an [[Orlando, Florida|Orlando]]-based NBA team, Williams became the front man of the investment group one year later, after he left the [[Philadelphia 76ers|76ers]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lombardo |first1=John |title=Magic Man |date=February 11, 2013 |url=https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2013/02/11/Champions/Pat-Williams.aspx?hl=Sports%20Business%20Awards&sc=0 |publisher=Sports Business Daily |access-date=April 23, 2019 |archive-date=December 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215195044/https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2013/02/11/Champions/Pat-Williams.aspx?hl=Sports%20Business%20Awards&sc=0 |url-status=live }}</ref> On June 19, 1986, the two held a news conference to announce their intention of seeking an NBA franchise.<ref name=biz>{{cite news|url=http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2006/07/10/story10.html?page=all|title=Magic moments: 20 years since NBA idea was born|first=Carlos|last=Galarza|date=July 6, 2006|work=[[Orlando Business Journal]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=April 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140406204722/http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2006/07/10/story10.html?page=all|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=champ>{{cite news|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2013/02/11/Champions/Pat-Williams.aspx?hl=Sports%20Business%20Awards&sc=0|title=Magic Man|first=John|last=Lombardo|date=February 11, 2013|work=Sports Business Journal|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=October 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021052857/http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2013/02/11/Champions/Pat-Williams.aspx?hl=Sports%20Business%20Awards&sc=0|url-status=live}}</ref>

At the same time, Hewitt and Williams decided to hold a contest in the ''[[Orlando Sentinel]]'' newspaper to get names for their new franchise. Out of a total of 4,296 submitted entries, the names were subsequently narrowed to four, "Heat", "Tropics", "Juice", and "Magic". The last one, which had been submitted by 11 people, was picked after Williams brought his seven-year-old daughter [[Karyn Williams|Karyn]] to visit in Orlando.<ref name="MAGIC: Behind the Name: the Orlando Magic"/> On July 27, 1986, it was announced that the committee chose the Magic to be the new name of the Orlando franchise in the NBA.<ref name="MAGIC: 20 Years Ago Today – The Magic Begins"/> The name "Magic" alludes to the area's biggest tourist attraction and economic engine [[Walt Disney World]], along with its [[Magic Kingdom]], highlighting its [[The Walt Disney Company|corporate]] theme of [[Magic (supernatural)|magic]]. Hewitt added that "You look at all the aspects of [[Central Florida]], and you find it really is an exciting place, a magical place."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nbahoopsonline.com/Articles/2007-08/teamnames.html|title=History of team names in the NBA.|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=June 29, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629132231/http://nbahoopsonline.com/Articles/2007-08/teamnames.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1986/07/27/abracadabra-its-magic-orlandos-prospective-nba-team-now-has-a-name/|title=Abracadabra! It's Magic Orlando's Prospective Nba Team Now Has A Name|date=July 27, 1986|first=Barry|last=Cooper|work=Orlando Sentinel|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=December 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220111141/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/1986-07-27/sports/0240120291_1_orlando-magic-magic-johnson-earvin|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://mentalfloss.com/article/23115/origins-all-30-nba-team-names|title=The Origins of All 30 NBA Team Names|date=October 14, 2016|access-date=March 27, 2015|archive-date=August 9, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150809134149/http://mentalfloss.com/article/23115/origins-all-30-nba-team-names|url-status=live}}</ref>

Many, including Williams himself at first, thought that [[Miami]] or [[Tampa]] were better locations in Florida for a franchise. At the time, Orlando was a small city without a major airport or a suitable arena.<ref name=stern>{{cite news|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2013/02/11/Champions/Williams-Orlando.aspx|title=Stern: Pat 'refused to take no for an answer'|first=John|last=Lombardo|date=February 11, 2013|work=Sports Business Journal|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=October 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021052855/http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Journal/Issues/2013/02/11/Champions/Williams-Orlando.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> Hewitt brought investors such as real estate developer William DuPont, [[Orlando Renegades]] owner Don Dizney, and Southern Fruit Citrus owners Jim and Steve Caruso,<ref name=biz/> and talked the Orlando city officials into approving an arena project.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1986/12/09/gung-ho-city-council-okays-early-construction-of-arena/|title=Gung-ho City Council Okays Early Construction Of Arena|first=Goldie|last=Blumenstyk|date=December 9, 1986|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=June 12, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120612015105/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/1986-12-09/news/0280060142_1_early-construction-arena-city-council|url-status=live}}</ref> Meanwhile, Williams gave presentations to [[Commissioner of the NBA|NBA commissioner]] [[David Stern]] and the owners of the other teams of the league that the town was viable.<ref name=stern/>

In April, the franchise committee recommended expanding by three teams, with two of the slots going to [[Charlotte, North Carolina|Charlotte]] and [[Minneapolis-St. Paul]]. The recommendation put the Orlando bid in doubt, since it advised that the state of [[Florida]] should only be allocated one team as part of the three-team expansion. This feedback put the planned Orlando franchise up against the Miami-based team, originally known as the ''Florida Heat'' and eventually named the [[Miami Heat]].<ref name=sunsentinel>{{cite news |title=The Heat is On, Miami awarded NBA franchise |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1987-04-23-8701260125-story.html%26psig%3DAOvVaw1T8vzEJe0qdAODLDqFfXLf%26ust%3D1556101433912985 |newspaper=Sun Sentinel |access-date=February 10, 2024 |archive-date=December 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221203040234/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1987-04-23-8701260125-story.html%26psig%3DAOvVaw1T8vzEJe0qdAODLDqFfXLf%26ust%3D1556101433912985 |url-status=live }}</ref> When both Miami and Orlando ownership groups made successful pitches, the expansion committee decided to expand by four teams, allowing both to have a franchise.<ref name="NYTexp"/>

The Magic became the first-ever major-league professional sports franchise in the Orlando area, following an expansion fee of reportedly $32.5 million.<ref name=biz/><ref name="NYTexp" /> They were one of the four new expansion franchises awarded by the NBA in 1987 along with the [[Charlotte Hornets]], [[Miami Heat]] and [[Minnesota Timberwolves]].<ref>{{cite news |title=NBA '89–90; Turnovers, 2 More Teams And Questions |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/10/29/sports/nba-89-90-turnovers-2-more-teams-and-questions.html |newspaper=The New York Times |date=October 29, 1989 |access-date=April 23, 2019 |archive-date=April 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423095116/https://www.nytimes.com/1989/10/29/sports/nba-89-90-turnovers-2-more-teams-and-questions.html |url-status=live |last1=Goldaper |first1=Sam }}</ref> The Magic hired [[Matt Guokas]] as the team's first coach, who helped the Magic select 12 players in the [[1989 NBA expansion draft|NBA expansion draft]] on June 15, 1989.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1988/05/27/magic-may-conjure-up-first-coach-in-former-76ers-chief/ |title=MAGIC MAY CONJURE UP FIRST COACH IN FORMER 76ERS CHIEF |website=Orlando Sentinel |date=May 27, 1988 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref>

===1989–1992: Early years===
The Magic, in their debut year, selected Nick Anderson from Illinois in the first round of the [[1989 NBA draft]]. As the 11th pick, he was the team's first franchise player and leading scorer for a decade.
The Magic's very first game played was an exhibition game on October 13, 1989, against the then-reigning champion Detroit Pistons, which the Magic won.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2011/10/29/dave-corzine-has-magic-flashback/|title=Dave Corzine has Magic flashback|first=Brian|last=Schmitz|date=October 29, 2011|work=[[Orlando Sentinel]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231001252/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2011-10-29/sports/os-magic-schmitz-sunday-1030-20111029_1_dave-corzine-magic-flashback-magic-general-manager|url-status=live}}</ref> Anderson was quoted as saying the atmosphere and the people watching the game was "like Game 7 of the NBA Finals".<ref name="Magic history" />

On November 4, 1989, the Magic played their first season game at the [[Orlando Arena]] (O-Rena) against the visiting [[New Jersey Nets]], who won 111–106 in a hard-fought game.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nba.com/game/njn-vs-orl-0028900022 |title=New Jersey Nets vs Orlando Magic Nov 4, 1989 Game Result |website=NBA.com |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> The Magic's first victory came two days later, as the Magic defeated the [[New York Knicks]] 118–110.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/198911060ORL.html |title=New York Knicks at Orlando Magic Box Score, November 6, 1989 |website=Basketball-Reference |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> The inaugural team compiled a record of 18–64 with players including the franchise star player [[Nick Anderson (basketball)|Nick Anderson]], [[Reggie Theus]], [[Scott Skiles]], [[Terry Catledge]], [[Sam Vincent (basketball)|Sam Vincent]], [[Otis Smith (basketball)|Otis Smith]], and [[Jerry Reynolds (basketball player)|Jerry Reynolds]].<ref name="1989–90 Standings"/><ref name="NBA Expansion Drafts: Results"/>

In the [[1990 NBA draft]], the Orlando Magic selected [[Dennis Scott (basketball)|Dennis Scott]] with the fourth overall pick.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.orlandopinstripedpost.com/2013/12/9/5193860/orlando-magic-anniversary-dennis-scott-honor-2013-cavaliers|title=Orlando Magic 25th anniversary: Team to honor Dennis Scott on December 13th|first=Evan|last=Dunlap|date=December 9, 2013|work=Orlando Pinstriped Post|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230232314/http://www.orlandopinstripedpost.com/2013/12/9/5193860/orlando-magic-anniversary-dennis-scott-honor-2013-cavaliers|url-status=live}}</ref> On December 30, 1990, Scott Skiles racked up 30 assists in the 155–116 victory over the [[Denver Nuggets]], breaking [[Kevin Porter (basketball, born 1950)|Kevin Porter]]'s NBA single-game assists record (29).<ref>{{cite news|title=Scott Skiles: The Game I'll Never Forget|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/Scott_Skiles_The_Game_Irsquo-144374-800.html|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=December 30, 2005|access-date=November 27, 2006|archive-date=December 1, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101201212207/http://www.nba.com/magic/history/1990-91.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Skiles was named the NBA's [[NBA Most Improved Player Award|Most Improved Player]] at the end of the season, as the Magic heralded the NBA's most improved record that season. Forward Dennis Scott set a team mark with 125 three-point field goals for the season, the best long-distance production by a rookie in NBA history.<ref name="Magic history"/> He was named to the [[NBA All-Rookie Team|NBA All-Rookie First Team]].<ref name="Magic history" />

On September 19, 1991, the DeVos family, founders of [[Amway]], purchased the franchise for $85 million. Family patriarch [[Richard DeVos]] became the owner of the franchise.<ref name="N.B.A. Orlando Team Sold"/> The [[1991–92 NBA season|1991–92 season]] was disappointing for the Magic as various players missed games with injuries. Dennis Scott played only 18 games, Nick Anderson missed 22 games, [[Stanley Roberts]], Jerry Reynolds, [[Bison Dele|Brian Williams]], Sam Vincent and Otis Smith all missed at least 27 games each. With a shortage of healthy players, the team struggled through a 17-game losing streak and finished with a 21–61 record. The Magic still managed to have all 41 home games sold out.<ref name="Magic history" />
[[File:HBCUAllstarBasketball4223-118 (52802377149) (cropped).jpg|left|thumb|Penny Hardaway in 2023]]

===1992–1996: The Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway era===
[[File:Shaquille O'Neal 1998.jpg|thumb|Shaquille O’ Neal in 1998]]
The Magic history was changed on May 17, 1992, when the franchise won the first pick in the [[1992 NBA draft]] Lottery.<ref name="Magic history" /> The Magic selected big-man [[Shaquille O'Neal]] from [[Louisiana State University]], the biggest prize in the draft since the Knicks won [[Patrick Ewing]].<ref name="The Top Pick Is Going to Disney World"/> O'Neal, a {{height|ft=7|in=1}} [[center (basketball)|center]], made an immediate impact on the Magic, leading the team to a 41–41 record.<ref name="1992–93 Standings"/> The Magic again became the NBA's most improved franchise, as they improved by 20 games. O'Neal was the first rookie to be voted an All-Star starter since [[Michael Jordan]] in 1985.<ref name="Magic history" /> He also became the 1992–93 [[NBA Rookie of the Year Award|NBA Rookie of the Year]]. Despite O'Neal's presence, the Magic missed the [[1993 NBA playoffs]] because they were tied with the [[Indiana Pacers]] for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with the Pacers holding the tiebreaker.<ref name=grantland>{{cite web|url=http://grantland.com/1990s-orlando-magic-oral-history/|title=Blue Chips: An oral history of Shaq, Penny, and the Orlando Magic's lost NBA dynasty.|work=Grantland|publisher=ESPN|first=Jonathan|last=Abrams|date=April 6, 2015|access-date=December 7, 2016|archive-date=November 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161126075819/http://grantland.com/1990s-orlando-magic-oral-history/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Despite barely missing the playoffs and receiving the least chance of gaining the top draft pick with only one ball in the lottery, the Magic again won the first pick in the [[1993 NBA draft]] Lottery.<ref name="Magic history" /> Prior to the draft, Guokas stepped down as head coach, and [[Brian Hill (basketball coach)|Brian Hill]] was promoted to become the Magic's second head coach.<ref name="Hill Is Named Coach of Magic"/> In the draft, the Magic selected [[Chris Webber]], but traded him to the [[Golden State Warriors]] for the number three pick, guard [[Penny Hardaway|Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway]] and three future first-round draft picks.<ref name="Warriors in talks with Webber"/> With the combination of O'Neal and Hardaway, the Magic became a dominant team in the NBA, compiling the first 50 win season in franchise history with a 50–32 record.<ref name="1993–94 Standings"/> The Magic were in the playoffs for the first time, ranked the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference; however, the Pacers swept the Magic 3–0 in the first round, thus ending the Magic's season.<ref name="1994 Playoff Results"/>

In the [[1994–95 NBA season|1994–95 season]], the Magic's sixth season, [[List of NBA All-Stars|All-Star]] forward [[Horace Grant]] was acquired as a [[free agent]] from the [[Chicago Bulls]].<ref name="Magic history" /> The Orlando Magic compiled a 57–25 record, best in the East and winning the [[Atlantic Division (NBA)|Atlantic Division]] title,<ref name="1994–95 Standings"/> becoming the second-fastest team (behind the [[Milwaukee Bucks]] in [[1971 NBA Finals|1971]], who were in their third season) to advance to the NBA Finals in league history.<ref name="Orlando Magic: Did You Know?"/> In the playoffs, the Magic defeated the [[Boston Celtics]], Bulls, and the Pacers, advancing to the NBA Finals where O'Neal, Hardaway and the young Magic bowed to a more playoff-experienced [[Hakeem Olajuwon]] and the [[Houston Rockets]], winning their second consecutive championship in a 4–0 sweep of Orlando.<ref name="1995 Playoff Results"/>

In the [[1995–96 NBA season|1995–96 season]], the Magic again were near the top of the Eastern Conference and the Atlantic Division with 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 the Chicago Bulls.<ref name="1995–96 Standings"/> In the meantime, general manager Pat Williams was promoted to senior executive vice president and replaced by the vice president of Basketball Operations [[John Gabriel (basketball)|John Gabriel]] on April 29, 1996.<ref name="MAGIC: All-Time Transactions"/> In the playoffs, after the Magic defeated the [[Detroit Pistons]] and the [[Atlanta Hawks]], Orlando met the Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals.<ref name="1996 Playoff Results"/> The combination of Jordan, [[Scottie Pippen]] and rebounder [[Dennis Rodman]] was too much for the Magic, and Orlando was swept 4–0.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.philly.com/1996-05-28/sports/25623963_1_orlando-magic-anfernee-hardaway-magic-three|title=Bull Rush Jordan, Chicago Sweep Past Magic Into Finals Jordan Is The Magic|first=John|last=Smallwood|date=May 28, 1996|work=[[Philadelphia Daily News]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304091843/http://articles.philly.com/1996-05-28/sports/25623963_1_orlando-magic-anfernee-hardaway-magic-three|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===1996–1999: The post-Shaq/Penny Hardaway era===
In the off-season, O'Neal left as a [[free agent]] to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]], dealing a huge blow to the Magic franchise.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-07-19-sp-25797-story.html|title=Lakers Hit The Shaqpot|first=Mark|last=Heisler|date=July 19, 1996|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230232614/http://articles.latimes.com/1996-07-19/sports/sp-25797_1_los-angeles-lakers|url-status=live}}</ref> In the middle of the season, urged by player discontent, management fired coach [[Brian Hill (basketball)|Brian Hill]] and named [[Richie Adubato]] as interim coach for the rest of the season.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1997/02/18/Orlando-fires-Hill-Adubato-takes-over/9333856242000/ |title=Orlando fires Hill; Adubato takes over |website=UPI.com |date=February 18, 1997 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> Under Adubato, the Magic went 21–12 to compile a 45–37 record, led by [[Penny Hardaway]]. In the playoffs, the Magic quickly fell 0–2 to the heavily favored Miami Heat in the first round, but Hardaway battled back with consecutive 40-point games to assure a game five (the first player to do so), which the Magic ultimately lost.<ref name=grantland/>

The Magic then hired [[Chuck Daly]] to be head coach for the [[1997–98 NBA season|1997–98 season]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/1997/06/02/daly-reconsiders-takes-magic-job-former-pistons-coach-gets-3-year-15-million-deal/|title=Daly reconsiders, takes Magic job Former Pistons coach gets 3-year, $15 million deal|date=June 2, 1997|work=[[The Baltimore Sun]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231001122/http://articles.baltimoresun.com/1997-06-02/sports/1997153097_1_daly-pistons-coach-nba|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition, Hall of Famer [[Julius Erving]] joined the Magic's front office, giving Orlando hope for a successful season.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/06/06/sports/erving-joins-the-magic-s-front-office.html |title=Erving Joins the Magic's Front Office |website=The New York Times |date=June 6, 1997 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> The season was hampered by an injury to Hardaway who sat out the majority of the season. Anderson, combined with newly acquired free agent [[Bo Outlaw]], led the team to a 41–41 record, just out of reach of the NBA playoffs. In addition, [[Rony Seikaly]] was traded during the season to the [[New Jersey Nets]] for three role players and a future draft pick.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1998/02/20/seikaly-bounces-to-nets-and-it-looks-as-if-hell-go/|title=Seikaly Bounces To Nets, And It Looks As If He'll Go|first=Tim|last=Povtak|date=February 20, 1998|work=[[Orlando Sentinel]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230235219/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/1998-02-20/news/9802200450_1_rony-seikaly-utah-jazz-magic|url-status=live}}</ref>

In [[1998–99 NBA season|1998–99]], with the drafting of [[Michael Doleac]] and [[Matt Harpring]] with the 12th and 15th picks in the [[1998 NBA Draft|1998 draft]], and a healthy Penny Hardaway and Nick Anderson, the Magic tied for the Eastern Conference's best record with the [[Miami Heat]] in the lockout-shortened season, 33–17. At the heart of the team was veteran and future Orlando Magic Hall of Famer [[Darrell Armstrong]], leading from the vanguard (a constant that Orlando fans would enjoy for a decade) and picking up the NBA's [[Sixth-Man]] and [[NBA Most Improved Player Award|Most Improved Player]] awards along the way.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/1999/05/11/armstrong-wins-sixth-man-award/ |title=Armstrong wins Sixth Man award |website=Tampa Bay Times |date=May 11, 1999 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1999/05/20/armstrong-earns-award-as-most-improved-player/ |title=ARMSTRONG EARNS AWARD AS MOST IMPROVED PLAYER |website=Orlando Sentinel |date=May 20, 1999 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> Orlando also acquired NBA great [[Dominique Wilkins]], along with brother Gerald, who were past their primes but were both still serviceable NBA players.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/report-magic-to-sign-wilkins/ |title=
Report: Magic To Sign Wilkins |website=CBS News |date=February 4, 1999 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> In the playoffs the Penny Hardaway-led Magic were seeded number 3 because of tiebreakers and faced the [[Philadelphia 76ers]]. The 76ers, led by [[Allen Iverson]], upset the Magic 3–1 in the first round.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1999/05/16/76ers-101-magic-91/|title=76ers 101, Magic 91|first=Tim|last=Povtak|date=May 16, 1999|work=[[Orlando Sentinel]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230234710/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/1999-05-16/news/9905160136_1_magic-hardaway-76ers|url-status=live}}</ref> The team also changed their uniforms for the first time ever, changing from pinstripes to stars.

===1999–2000: "Heart and Hustle" season===
In 1999, the Magic, under general manager [[John Gabriel (basketball)|John Gabriel]], who was later named Executive of the Year, hired rookie-coach [[Doc Rivers]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.philly.com/1999-06-08/sports/25499225_1_doc-rivers-sixers-john-gabriel|title=Oakley Shows Interest In Sixers; Magic Hire Rivers As Head Coach|first=Stephen A.|last=Smith|date=June 8, 1999|work=[[Philadelphia Daily News]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=March 2, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302043307/http://articles.philly.com/1999-06-08/sports/25499225_1_doc-rivers-sixers-john-gabriel|url-status=dead}}</ref> Gabriel dismantled the previous team trading their only remaining superstar Penny Hardaway to the [[Phoenix Suns]] for [[Danny Manning]] (who never donned a Magic uniform), [[Pat Garrity]], and two future draft picks.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/suns-sign-penny-for-7-years/|title=Suns Sign Penny For 7 Years|date=August 4, 1999|work=[[CBS News]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230231903/http://www.cbsnews.com/news/suns-sign-penny-for-7-years/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Magic were then a team composed of virtually all no name players and little experience, which included team captain Armstrong, Bo Outlaw and a young [[Ben Wallace (basketball)|Ben Wallace]], along with Coach Rivers, who led the Magic to a 41–41 record, barely missing out on the playoffs. At the end of the season Rivers was named [[Coach of the Year]]. That year was characterized by the slogan "Heart and Hustle", as the team was known for its hard-working style.<ref>{{cite web |title=Rivers edges Jackson for Honor |url=http://www.espn.com/nba/news/2000/0426/502529.html |publisher=[[ESPN]] |access-date=April 22, 2019 |archive-date=April 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190422212505/http://www.espn.com/nba/news/2000/0426/502529.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

===2000–2004: The Tracy McGrady era===
The following off-season, Gabriel, with millions of cleared salary cap space, attempted to lure three of the NBA's most prized free agents: [[Tim Duncan]], [[Grant Hill (basketball)|Grant Hill]], and [[Tracy McGrady]]. While Duncan opted to remain with the [[San Antonio Spurs]], the Magic acquired Hill,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.nba.com/magic/news/hill_trade_000803.html |title=Magic Obtain All-Star Hill |website=NBA.com |date=August 3, 2000 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> a perennial All-Star, and McGrady.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/basketball/it-s-official-mcgrady-is-headed-to-orlando-1.197055 |title=It's official: McGrady is headed to Orlando |website=CBC |date=July 15, 2000 |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref> With McGrady and Hill together, the Magic were expected to be a force in the East. However, Hill was limited to 4 games because of an ankle injury. McGrady blossomed into a star during the season, becoming one of the NBA's top scorers. With the addition of [[Mike Miller (basketball, born 1980)|Mike Miller]] from the draft, the Magic compiled a 43–39 record, which included a nine-game winning streak, and once again made the playoffs. McGrady made the All-Star Team and All-NBA Second Team. Miller won the [[NBA Rookie of the Year Award|Rookie of the Year]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Mike Miller wins rookie of the year |url=https://www.nba.com/news/rookie_010510.html |publisher=NBA |access-date=April 22, 2019 |archive-date=April 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190422212745/https://www.nba.com/news/rookie_010510.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In the playoffs, they faced the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. The Bucks won the series 3–1.

In [[2001–02 NBA season|2001–02]], McGrady led the Magic to a winning record of 44–38. Hill was still severely limited by his ankle injury, and did not play for the vast majority of the season. McGrady, combined with Armstrong, Miller, and 3-point sharpshooter [[Pat Garrity]], formed the core of the team. McGrady made the All-NBA for the first time and made his second consecutive All-Star Team. However, the Magic were defeated 3–1 in the first round of the playoffs by the [[Charlotte Hornets]] led by [[Baron Davis]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.philly.com/2002-05-01/sports/25347639_1_hornets-tracy-mcgrady-memphis-grizzlies|title=Hornets make Magic disappear|date=May 1, 2002|work=[[Philadelphia Daily News]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304073504/http://articles.philly.com/2002-05-01/sports/25347639_1_hornets-tracy-mcgrady-memphis-grizzlies|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In [[2002–03 NBA season|2002–03]], with the acquisitions of [[Gordan Giricek]] and [[Drew Gooden]] from the [[Memphis Grizzlies]] in exchange for [[Mike Miller (basketball, born 1980)|Mike Miller]], McGrady once again led the Magic to a 42–40 record. McGrady led the league in scoring with 32.1 points per game, made his second All-NBA First Team, and Third All-Star Team. Despite still not having Hill due to injury, the Magic entered the playoffs for the third straight year. However, after taking a 3–1 lead in the best-of-seven first-round series, the Magic fell to the [[Detroit Pistons]] 4–3 in the now infamous heartbreaker. McGrady was quoted as saying, "It feels good to get in the second round" after still needing one more win to advance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uproxx.com/dimemag/2013/04/we-reminisce-when-tracy-mcgrady-almost-made-the-second-round-of-the-nba-playoffs-10-years-ago/|title=We Reminisce: When Tracy McGrady Almost Made The Second Round Of The NBA Playoffs 10 Years Ago|date=April 29, 2013|access-date=September 29, 2015|archive-date=October 1, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001045141/http://uproxx.com/dimemag/2013/04/we-reminisce-when-tracy-mcgrady-almost-made-the-second-round-of-the-nba-playoffs-10-years-ago/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Magic's 15th season in [[2003–04 NBA season|2003–04]] proved to be one of its toughest ever. Even with the acquisition of veteran free agents [[Tyronn Lue]] and [[Juwan Howard]], the Magic struggled early. After winning its first game, the Magic lost 19 consecutive games, setting a franchise record. They never recovered, and finished an NBA worst 21–61. Despite this, McGrady led the league in scoring with 28.0 points per game, made the All-NBA Second Team and his fourth consecutive All-Star Team. In the middle of the 19-game losing streak, coach Doc Rivers was fired, and assistant [[Johnny Davis (basketball, born 1955)|Johnny Davis]] was promoted to head coach.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2003/11/18/magic-fire-coach-doc-rivers/|title=Magic Fire Coach Doc Rivers|first=Brian|last=Schmitz|date=November 18, 2003|work=[[Orlando Sentinel]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231000515/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2003-11-18/news/0311180063_1_doc-rivers-orlando-magic-coach-johnny-davis|url-status=live}}</ref> General manager Gabriel was replaced by [[John Weisbrod]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=1757640|title=Gabriel blamed for Grant Hill fiasco|date=March 12, 2004|work=[[ESPN.com]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231000516/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=1757640|url-status=live}}</ref>

===2004–2012: The Dwight Howard era===
[[File:Dwight Howard.jpg|200px|thumb|left|[[Dwight Howard]] was drafted No. 1 overall in the [[2004 NBA draft]].]]
In the off-season, Weisbrod completely dismantled the team. Though he kept Davis as coach, he shook up the player roster, only keeping a few players from last season. The most significant trade was [[Tracy McGrady]]. McGrady, discontent with the Magic, wished to move on; Weisbrod accused McGrady of "slacking off" and not attending practices (McGrady later admitted that he did not give 100 percent during the 2003–04 season and wanted the team to bring him some help, but never wanted to leave Orlando). The Magic traded McGrady along with [[Reece Gaines]], [[Tyronn Lue]], and [[Juwan Howard]] to the [[Houston Rockets]] for [[Steve Francis]], [[Kelvin Cato]], and [[Cuttino Mobley]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2004/06/30/exit-t-mac-enter-steve-francis-the-7-player-trade-with-houston-is-final-tracy-mcgrady-didnt-want-to-leave-here/|title=Exit T-mac, Enter Steve Francis . . .the 7-player Trade With Houston Is Final. Tracy Mcgrady Didn't Want To Leave Here.|first=Brian|last=Schmitz|date=June 30, 2004|work=[[Orlando Sentinel]]|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231000512/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2004-06-30/sports/0406300337_1_tracy-mcgrady-steve-francis-orlando-magic|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition, the Magic acquired center [[Tony Battie]] and two second-round draft picks from the [[Cleveland Cavaliers]] in exchange for Drew Gooden, [[Steven Hunter]], and the draft rights to [[Anderson Varejão]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Magic Acquire Tony Battie, Picks from Cleveland|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/MAGIC_ACQUIRE_TONY_BATTIE_PIC-114607-66.html|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=July 23, 2004|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=November 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102145638/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/MAGIC_ACQUIRE_TONY_BATTIE_PIC-114607-66.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The Magic then signed free agent [[Hedo Türkoğlu]]. With the number one draft pick, the Magic selected high-school phenomenon and future All-Star and franchise cornerstone [[Dwight Howard]], and a draft-day trade with the [[Denver Nuggets]] got them point guard [[Jameer Nelson]].<ref name=0405s/>

After a promising 13–6 start, the Magic began to fall apart. First, Weisbrod traded Mobley for [[Doug Christie]] from the [[Sacramento Kings]]. Christie, because of his emotional ties to the Kings, at first refused to play for the Magic. Later on, Christie claimed he had [[bone spur]]s and was placed on the injured list after playing only a few games for the Magic.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2005/08/05/magic-will-waive-christie/|title=Magic will waive Christie|date=August 5, 2005 |access-date=December 7, 2016|archive-date=December 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220105851/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2005-08-05/sports/MAGIC05_1_christie-magic-threshold|url-status=live}}</ref> Near the end of the season, with a playoff-push faltering, Weisbrod fired Davis after leading Davis to believe he was going to be the team's head coach for the entire [[2004–05 NBA season]]. He then promoted [[Chris Jent]] to interim head coach.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2015188|title=Magic fire Davis following sixth straight loss|date=March 17, 2005|website=ESPN.com|access-date=December 7, 2016|archive-date=December 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220102939/http://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2015188|url-status=live}}</ref> Throughout the season, bolstered by Hill's return, the Magic played spectacularly, defeating top NBA teams. However, led by the erratic play of Francis, the Magic also lost to league teams with losing records. Howard showed great promise, becoming one of the few players to average a double-double. Howard was a consistent rebounder and scorer, becoming the first rookie to start and play all 82 games in a season. In addition, Nelson, after a slow start, developed into a talented player, taking over the starting point guard position. Hill also returned and averaged 19.7 points a game. Hill was chosen an All-Star starter by NBA fans for the 2005 All-Star Game, and Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson were named to the All-Rookie first and second teams, respectively. Howard was a unanimous selection.

[[File:J.J. RedickJameer Nelson.jpg|thumb|right|[[Jameer Nelson]] spent 10 seasons with Orlando from 2004 to 2014.]]
The Magic finished the season 36–46.<ref name=0405s>{{cite web|title=2004–05 Season|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/history/2004-05.html|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|access-date=December 28, 2013|archive-date=December 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231002313/http://www.nba.com/magic/history/2004-05.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Their playoff push was hampered by injuries in the last quarter of the season: a season-ending broken wrist for sixth man [[Hedo Türkoğlu]], a shin injury to [[Grant Hill (basketball)|Grant Hill]], a rib cage injury to Nelson, and a three-game suspension to Francis for kicking a photographer. The Magic ended a few games out of the playoffs. On May 23, 2005, the Magic's plans were disrupted by the abrupt resignation of general manager and Chief Operating Officer [[John Weisbrod]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2005/05/Issue-167/Sports-Industrialists/Magic-GM-COO-John-Weisbrod-Resigns-Is-Move-To-NHL-Next.aspx|title=Magic GM & COO John Weisbrod Resigns; Is Move To NHL Next?|date=May 23, 2005|work=Sports Business Daily|access-date=December 28, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230235057/http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2005/05/Issue-167/Sports-Industrialists/Magic-GM-COO-John-Weisbrod-Resigns-Is-Move-To-NHL-Next.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition, the Magic announced the following day that [[Brian Hill (basketball coach)|Brian Hill]], the coach who led the Magic to the [[NBA Finals]] under O'Neal and Hardaway, would return as head coach.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2005/05/24/Brian-Hill-named-Orlando-Magic-coach/UPI-19291116958393/|title=Brian Hill named Orlando Magic coach|date=May 24, 2005|work=[[United Press International|UPI]]|access-date=December 28, 2013|archive-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230234714/http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2005/05/24/Brian-Hill-named-Orlando-Magic-coach/UPI-19291116958393/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Magic drafted [[Spaniards|Spanish]] [[Fran Vázquez]] with the 11th pick in the [[2005 NBA draft]]. On July 28, 2005, Vazquez stunned the team after announcing that he would remain in Spain to play for [[Akasvayu Girona]], getting ridiculed by media after he was quoted that the decision to stay was made by his girlfriend.<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 9, 2020 |title=Fran Vazquez — the ghost of Magic past — retires |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2020/05/09/fran-vazquez-the-ghost-of-magic-past-retires-commentary/ |access-date=February 26, 2024 |website=Orlando Sentinel |language=en-US}}</ref> Owner [[Rich DeVos]] announced on October 21 that he was transferring ownership to his children, with the official owner role moving to son-in-law and team president Bob Vander Weide. The transfer was supposed to be complete by the end of the year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/basketball/magic/orl-magic2005oct20,0,2876966.story?coll=orl-magic |title=Archived copy |access-date=October 22, 2005 |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060104095814/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/basketball/magic/orl-magic2005oct20,0,2876966.story?coll=orl-magic |archive-date=January 4, 2006 }}</ref>

The [[2005–06 NBA season|2005–06 season]] opened with high hopes for the Magic despite not being able to add first-round draft pick Vasquez. Grant Hill was supposedly finally healed from his multiple ankle surgeries. [[Dwight Howard]] and [[Jameer Nelson]] showed excellent progress during summer-league play. Second-round draft pick [[Travis Diener]] showed excellent shooting and decision-making during the summer. And the free-agent signing of [[Keyon Dooling]] showed that the club was going to continue making progress. Then trouble began. Hill, despite his ankle apparently being healed, suffered a painful sports hernia injury that would hamper his play throughout the entire season. After playing in three preseason games, he underwent surgery to correct the hernia and would not appear during the regular season until mid-December, to which he lasted a month before attempting to make another comeback in February and early March, however, he only played sporadically. Then a foot injury to Nelson forced him to sit out for over a month.

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

====2006–2010: Return to the NBA Finals====
[[File:Stan Van Gundy sideline (cropped).jpg|thumb|left|upright|Head coach [[Stan Van Gundy]]]]
With the 11th overall pick in the [[2006 NBA draft]], the Magic took former Duke star [[JJ Redick]]. Even with the fan support to get him playing time he averaged just over 11 minutes a game. After beginning the season strong with a 13–4 record, the Orlando Magic began to suffer in the standings as the result of multiple losses, due in large part to the injuries of Tony Battie, Keyon Dooling, and Grant Hill. The Magic were also hampered with the sporadic play of many of their young stars, who on multiple occasions showed their propensity 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 blossom in his third year in the league, culminating in his first selection to the Eastern Conference All-Star team. The final few weeks of the season saw the Magic build momentum and confidence with an impressive late push towards the Playoffs. On April 15, 2007, with an 88–86 victory over the [[Boston Celtics]], the Magic secured its first berth in the NBA playoffs since 2003 by locking up the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. This marked the first time that the team had made the playoffs while posting a losing record. Nevertheless, their Playoff run ended on April 28, 2007, after they were swept in the first round by first seeded [[Detroit Pistons]] whose experience, veteran leadership and ability to consistently make the clutch basket proved far too much for the undermanned and overwhelmed Magic to overcome. It was announced on May 23, 2007, that [[Brian Hill (basketball coach)|Brian Hill]] had been fired as head coach of the Magic.

On June 1, 2007, the Magic signed [[Billy Donovan]] to be their head coach for five years. The next day, Donovan wished to be released from the contract and the Magic agreed several days later. On June 6, 2007, the Magic signed a 4-year contract with [[Stan Van Gundy]]. In the [[free agent]] market, the Magic signed [[Rashard Lewis]] of the [[Seattle SuperSonics]] to a six-year league-maximum contract believed to be worth over $110 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2932827|title=Sonics, Magic complete sign-and-trade for Rashard Lewis|date=July 11, 2007|publisher=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=March 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302122707/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2932827|url-status=live}}</ref> At the NBA China Games, the Magic swept the three games in China, twice against the [[Cleveland Cavaliers]] and once against the Chinese national team in games 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 of the team, although ownership is still split evenly amongst Richard DeVos' other children as well.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/basketball/magic/orl-mnotes1507nov15,0,15219.story|title=Magic's Vander Weide officially takes over reins from owner Rich DeVos|work=tribunedigital-orlandosentinel|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=November 17, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071117103604/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/basketball/magic/orl-mnotes1507nov15,0,15219.story|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Magic started the [[2007–08 NBA season]] with an impressive 16–4 record in their first 20 games, which included wins over the [[Boston Celtics]] and [[Cleveland Cavaliers]]. Through the next few months, the Magic were not so successful, splitting their next 36 games with 18 wins and 18 losses. At the start of March, the Magic seemed to pick up speed again, finishing the month with 10 wins, the first time since November that they won 10 or more in a month. The Magic clinched the [[Southeast Division (NBA)|Southeast Division]] title when the [[Washington Wizards]] were routed at [[Utah Jazz|Utah]] 129–87 on March 31, 2008. It was the Magic's third division title, but only their first since 1995–96 season, as well as their first since the Southeast Division was formed. They also earned their 50th win of the season against the [[Chicago Bulls]] on April 13, which had not happened since the 1995–96 season. The Magic finished the regular season 52–30, their best season since 1995–96. With the third 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 for the first time since the 1998–99 season.

On April 28, 2008, at [[Amway Arena]], the Magic eliminated the Raptors with a 4–1 series victory in the first round. It was the first playoff series victory for the Magic in 12 years after 6 straight first-round exits. The run of success did not last long as they fell 4–1 to the experienced [[Detroit Pistons]] in the second round. With the Magic already down in the series, controversy erupted after the Pistons' Game 2 victory. At the conclusion of the third quarter, [[Chauncey Billups]] of the Pistons made a three-point shot giving the Pistons a three-point lead. However, the clock had stopped just as the play began. NBA rules prohibit officials from using instant replay or any timing device to determine how much time has elapsed when a clock malfunctions, nor is a replay allowed to be viewed from the time of the malfunction to when the play ends, when the game clock has not expired. Because of the rule, the officials then estimated that the play took 4.6 seconds, and because there were 5.1 seconds remaining when play began, the field goal was allowed to be counted. The NBA later admitted that the play actually took 5.7 seconds and the basket in question should not have counted.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3384577|title=After review, NBA says Billups' 3-pointer should not have counted|date=May 6, 2008|publisher=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=August 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120807234053/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3384577|url-status=live}}</ref> The Pistons went on to win Game 2. The Magic were able to win Game 3, with the Pistons' Chauncey Billups out for most of the game with an injury but were unable to take advantage of his absence and defeat the Pistons in Games 4 and 5, which ended the Magic's playoff run in 2008. Another highlight of the season was [[Hedo Türkoğlu|Hedo Turkoglu]] winning Most Improved Player.

[[File:J. J. Redick.jpg|thumb|right|[[JJ Redick]] in 2008]]
The first half of the [[2008–09 Orlando Magic season|2008–09 season]] went very well for the Magic. After 41 games, the Magic were 33–8, leading the Southeast Division, as well as having one of the top four records in the league. At the start of February, [[Jameer Nelson]], their all-star starting point guard, went down with a shoulder injury. He was expected to miss the remainder of the season. After trading for [[Rafer Alston]], the Magic finished the regular season with a 59–23 record, it was the most games the team had won in a season since the 1995–96 season in which they had 60 wins. In the playoffs, the Magic beat the [[Philadelphia 76ers]] in the first round of the [[2009 NBA playoffs|playoffs]] and then the defending champions, the [[Boston Celtics]], in the Eastern Conference semifinals, behind assistant coach [[Patrick Ewing]]'s guarantee that they would win Game 7 of that series.<ref name="Magic Moment: Orlando beats Boston to advance"/> In their first conference finals since 1996, the Magic beat the [[Cleveland Cavaliers]], which were led by the season's MVP, [[LeBron James]]. After dropping the first two games in the [[2009 NBA Finals|Finals]] against the [[Los Angeles Lakers]], the Magic finally won their first-ever game in the Finals in Game 3. Despite Nelson's return to the team for the Finals, the Lakers won the series and the championship by beating the Magic in five games.
[[File:Hedo Turkoglu point guard 11-27-08.jpg|left|thumb|2007-08 Most Improved Player [[Hedo Türkoğlu|Hedo Turkoglu]] in 2008]]
In the 2009 off-season, Orlando traded [[Rafer Alston]], [[Tony Battie]], and [[Courtney Lee]] to the [[New Jersey Nets]] in exchange for eight-time [[List of NBA All-Stars|All-Star]] [[Vince Carter]] and [[Ryan Anderson (basketball, born 1988)|Ryan Anderson]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=4287197|title=New Jersey Nets ship Vince Carter to Orlando Magic for Rafer Alston, rookie Courtney Lee|date=June 25, 2009|publisher=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=October 25, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111025005420/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4287197|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Hedo Türkoğlu]], as part of a [[sign-and-trade]], was sent to the [[Toronto Raptors]]. They then made several free agent signings. On July 10, former [[Dallas Mavericks]] power forward [[Brandon Bass]] was given a 4-year deal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Magic Sign Free Agent Brandon Bass|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/basstomagic_071009.html|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090714233155/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/basstomagic_071009.html|archive-date=July 14, 2009|access-date=February 28, 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> On July 21, the Magic signed former [[Phoenix Suns]] forward [[Matt Barnes]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=4342767|title=Orlando Magic agree to two-year contract with free-agent forward Matt Barnes|date=July 21, 2009|publisher=ESPN|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=November 10, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111110085159/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4342767|url-status=live}}</ref> On August 19, they signed former [[Miami Heat]] point guard [[Jason Williams (basketball, born 1975)|Jason Williams]], who decided to come back after a year in retirement.<ref>{{cite news|title=Magic Sign Free Agent Jason Williams|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/sign_williams_081909.html|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=December 1, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101201093552/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/sign_williams_081909.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

On September 28, 2009, Orlando extended the contract of head coach [[Stan Van Gundy]] by exercising his option for the 2010–11 season. They did the same for general manager [[Otis Smith (basketball)|Otis Smith]], which would keep him in that position through the 2011–12 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-magic-van-gundy-smith-extensions-092809,0,6107768.story|title=Van Gundy, Smith reap the rewards of success|work=tribunedigital-orlandosentinel|access-date=June 30, 2015|archive-date=October 1, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091001105004/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-magic-van-gundy-smith-extensions-092809,0,6107768.story|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Magic were without [[Rashard Lewis]] for the first 10 games of the [[2009–10 Orlando Magic season|2009–10 season]]. Lewis tested positive for an elevated testosterone level that was caused by an over-the-counter supplement containing a substance banned by the league.<ref name="Lewis suspended 10 games by NBA"/> To make matters worse, Vince Carter suffered a left ankle injury in just the second game of the season. Carter's injury turned out to be not too serious, but caused him to miss the next five games. Another setback came in mid-November, when [[Jameer Nelson]] injured his left knee, which required arthroscopic surgery to repair. Nelson would be out for five weeks. Despite all of this, the Magic had a 23–8 record at the end of December.

Orlando lost seven of their first ten games in January but recovered well enough to post a winning record for the month by winning six of their next seven. Following the All-Star break, the Magic went on a roll, winning 23 of their 28 remaining games, clinching their fourth consecutive playoff berth and winning their third consecutive division championship in the process. The Magic finished the regular season with a 59–23 record, matching their record from the 2008–09 season, and finishing with not only the second-best record in the Eastern Conference, but the second-best record in the entire league. The team became one of the only teams in NBA history to beat all of the other 29 teams at least once during the regular season. The Magic swept the [[Charlotte Bobcats]] and the [[Atlanta Hawks]] in the first two rounds of the [[2010 NBA playoffs|playoffs]], respectively. They then faced the [[Boston Celtics]] in the conference finals. After losing the first three games of the series, Orlando managed to win the next two games, but lost on the road in Game 6, ending their season.

====2010–2012: "Dwightmare" saga====
[[File:Scott Skiles bench cropped.jpg|thumb|left|upright|[[Scott Skiles]] coached the Magic in the [[2015–16 NBA season|2015–16 season]].]]
In anticipation of the team's move to [[Amway Center]], the Magic updated its logo. They retained the streaking ball logo, but changed the wordmark taken from their current uniforms. The Magic hosted the NBA All-Star Game in 2012. The Magic also unveiled black alternate uniforms.

In the summer of 2010, the Orlando Magic signed [[Chris Duhon]], formerly of the New York Knicks,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.insidehoops.com/blog/?p=6157 |title=Magic sign Chris Duhon |publisher=InsideHoops |access-date=January 27, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307202054/http://www.insidehoops.com/blog/?p=6157 |archive-date=March 7, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and [[Quentin Richardson]], formerly of the Miami Heat.

On December 18, 2010, having lost five of their last six games, the Magic made a blockbuster trade deal with the [[Phoenix Suns]] and the [[Washington Wizards]]. They traded [[Vince Carter]], [[Marcin Gortat]] and [[Mickaël Piétrus]] to Phoenix for [[Hedo Türkoğlu]] (who led them into the 2009 NBA Finals when they lost 4–1 against the [[Los Angeles Lakers]]), [[Jason Richardson]] and [[Earl Clark]]. [[Rashard Lewis]] was traded to Washington for 3-time All-Star [[Gilbert Arenas]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=5932861 |title=Sources: Magic trade for Gilbert Arenas |date=December 18, 2010 |publisher=[[ESPN]] |access-date=December 18, 2010 |archive-date=January 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120110085532/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5932861 |url-status=live }}</ref>

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

In a lockout-shortened [[2011–12 NBA season|2011–12 season]], the Magic started the off-season on a rocky note, with their All-Star center, [[Dwight Howard]], requesting a trade to either the [[New Jersey Nets]], [[Los Angeles Lakers]], or [[Dallas Mavericks]]. Overlooking the trade request the Magic did a sign and trade with the Boston Celtics for [[Glen Davis (basketball)|Glen Davis]] and [[Von Wafer]] in exchange for [[Brandon Bass]]. The Magic also amnestied [[Gilbert Arenas]] and signed [[Larry Hughes]], [[Justin Harper (basketball)|Justin Harper]], and [[DeAndre Liggins]]. The Magic started the season on Christmas Day in [[Oklahoma City]] against the [[Oklahoma City Thunder|Thunder]]. They lost the season opener 97–89. During the month of February, the Magic waived Hughes and signed [[Ish Smith]]. On February 26, Orlando hosted the 2012 All-Star Game. The Magic struggled to win games consistently, with concerns about the uncertainty of Dwight Howard's future with the franchise. However, after Dwight rescinded his trade demand and signed a one-year deal in March, the Magic seemed to find their footing again. But then in early April, shortly after it became public that Howard requested coach Van Gundy to be replaced, the center was diagnosed with a herniated disk and forced to have back surgery, thus ending his season. The Magic clinched the sixth seed in the east with a 37–29 record. The Magic were faced with the third-seeded Pacers in the first round. Despite winning the first game of the series the Magic were defeated 4–1.

On May 21, 2012, it was reported that general manager [[Otis Smith (basketball)|Otis Smith]] and head coach [[Stan Van Gundy]] would part ways with the organization. Stan Van Gundy finished with a 259–135 regular season record with the team which included making the playoffs in those five years and a conference championship.

CEO [[Alex Martins]] announced former Oklahoma City assistant general manager [[Rob Hennigan]] as the new general manager for the Orlando Magic on June 20, 2012. Once hired, he became the youngest general manager in the league.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/magic/story/2012-06-20/orlando-magic-hire-rob-hennigan-gm/55723510/1 |title=Orlando Magic GM Rob Hennigan – |publisher=Usatoday.com |date=June 20, 2012 |access-date=January 27, 2013 |archive-date=June 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623213050/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/magic/story/2012-06-20/orlando-magic-hire-rob-hennigan-gm/55723510/1 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the [[2012 NBA draft]], the Magic selected [[Andrew Nicholson (basketball)|Andrew Nicholson]] and [[Kyle O'Quinn]].

On June 25, 2012, [[Dwight Howard]] had face-to-face meetings with general manager [[Rob Hennigan]] in Los Angeles and demanded a trade to the [[Brooklyn Nets]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Dwight Howard Demands Nets Trade|date=June 30, 2012|url=http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/06/30/dwight-howard-demands-nets-trade/|publisher=CBS New York|access-date=July 1, 2012|archive-date=June 25, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130625014646/http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/06/30/dwight-howard-demands-nets-trade/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On July 9, 2012, the Magic completed a sign-and-trade deal with the [[New Orleans Hornets]], that sent forward Ryan Anderson to the Hornets. In return the Magic received center [[Gustavo Ayon]].

On July 28, 2012, [[Jacque Vaughn]] was named the new head coach. He had been the assistant coach for the [[San Antonio Spurs]] for the last two seasons.<ref>{{cite web|title=Jacque Vaughn named as Magic head coach|url=http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/jacque-vaughn-named-new-orlando-magic-head-coach/nP5zN/|publisher=WFTV Channel 9 Orlando|access-date=July 28, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120730222744/http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/jacque-vaughn-named-new-orlando-magic-head-coach/nP5zN/|archive-date=July 30, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On August 9, 2012, [[ESPN]] reported that a four-team trade would send [[Dwight Howard]] to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]]. Marc Stein of ESPN.com was told the Lakers were to acquire Howard, [[Chris Duhon]] and [[Earl Clark]], the [[Denver Nuggets]] were to acquire [[Andre Iguodala]], the [[Philadelphia 76ers]] were to acquire [[Andrew Bynum]] and [[Jason Richardson]], and the Magic were to acquire [[Arron Afflalo]], [[Al Harrington]], [[Nikola Vučević]], [[Maurice Harkless]], [[Josh McRoberts]], [[Christian Eyenga]], and five total protected future (three first-round, two second-round) picks from each of the other three teams.<ref>{{cite web|title=Dwight Howard to Lakers|date=August 10, 2012|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/8256377/dwight-howard-traded-los-angeles-lakers|publisher=ESPN|access-date=August 10, 2012|archive-date=May 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130509150742/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/8256377/dwight-howard-traded-los-angeles-lakers|url-status=live}}</ref> The deal was officially confirmed and completed on August 10.<ref>{{cite web |access-date=August 10, 2012 |url=http://www.nba.com/2012/news/08/10/dwight-howard-trade.ap/index.html |title=It's official: Howard dealt to Lakers in four-team trade |publisher=NBA |date=August 10, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120811080542/http://www.nba.com/2012/news/08/10/dwight-howard-trade.ap/index.html |archive-date=August 11, 2012 }}</ref>
Howard left the Magic as their all-time leading scorer, shot blocker, and rebounder.

===2012–2021: Struggles with Nikola Vucevic===
[[File:Aaron Gordon (15614234597) (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|220px|[[Aaron Gordon]] was selected by the Magic in the [[2014 NBA draft]].]]

====2012–2017: Rob Hennigan era====
[[File:Nikola Vucevic Dec 2013 (cropped).jpg|thumb|[[Nikola Vučević]] playing for the Magic]]
Following the trade of Dwight Howard, the Magic entered into a state of rebuilding with [[Maurice Harkless]] and [[Nikola Vučević]]. On August 29, the Magic signed free agent guard [[E'Twaun Moore]]. On December 2, 2012, Howard's first game against his former team, the Magic defeated the Lakers 113–103.

On February 21, 2013, the Magic traded [[JJ Redick]], [[Ish Smith]] and [[Gustavo Ayón]] to the [[Milwaukee Bucks]]. In return, the Magic received [[Beno Udrih]], [[Tobias Harris]] and rookie [[Doron Lamb]]. The Magic also traded [[Josh McRoberts]] to the [[Charlotte Bobcats]] for [[Hakim Warrick]] who was waived 2 days later. The Magic finish the 2012–13 season 20–62 as the worst record in the NBA, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2006.

On June 27, 2013, the Orlando Magic had the second pick in the first round of the [[2013 NBA draft]]. The Magic used their [[NBA draft lottery|lottery]] pick to draft [[Big Ten]] Defensive Player of the Year,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bigten.org/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/031113aaf.html |title=Big Ten Announces 2013 Men's Basketball Postseason Honors |date=March 11, 2013 |work=[[Big Ten Conference]] |access-date=June 28, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130314084205/http://www.bigten.org/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/031113aaf.html |archive-date=March 14, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> shooting guard [[Victor Oladipo]] from [[Indiana University Bloomington|Indiana University]]. The Magic also had the 51st pick in the second round of the NBA draft. They used this pick to draft forward [[Romero Osby]] from the [[University of Oklahoma]]. Osby averaged 16 points, seven rebounds, and 1.3 assists during his senior NCAA season at Oklahoma but was cut by the Magic before the season opener.

The Magic finished the 2013–14 season with a 23–59 record, third worst in the NBA. The draft lottery gave them the fourth pick in the [[2014 NBA draft]]. In the draft, they selected [[Aaron Gordon]] with the fourth pick and [[Dario Šarić]] with the 12th pick. Saric was then swapped for the 10th pick, [[Elfrid Payton (basketball)|Elfrid Payton]] in exchange for a 2017 first round pick and a future second round pick. [[Roy Devyn Marble]] was selected with the 56th pick in the second round. On February 5, 2015, Jacque Vaughn was relieved of his head coaching duties after coaching {{frac|2|1|2}} seasons for the Magic. His overall record was 58–158. He was replaced by interim head coach [[James Borrego]].

On May 29, 2015, the Magic hired their former point guard [[Scott Skiles]] as the franchise's 12th head coach.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hightower|first=Kyle|title=Magic tab Skiles as 12th coach in franchise history|url=http://www.nba.com/2015/news/05/29/orlando-magic-hire-scott-skiles-head-coach.ap/|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=May 29, 2015|access-date=August 15, 2015|archive-date=June 2, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602204909/http://www.nba.com/2015/news/05/29/orlando-magic-hire-scott-skiles-head-coach.ap|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Magic hire Scott Skiles as coach|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/12976735/scott-skiles-hired-orlando-magic-coach|publisher=ESPN|date=May 29, 2015|access-date=August 15, 2015|archive-date=August 22, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150822183558/http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/12976735/scott-skiles-hired-orlando-magic-coach|url-status=live}}</ref>

On June 25, 2015, in the [[2015 NBA draft]], Orlando selected [[Mario Hezonja]] with the fifth overall pick and [[Tyler Harvey (basketball)|Tyler Harvey]]
with the 51st overall pick.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Denton|first1=John|title=Magic Select Mario Hezonja with Fifth Overall Pick|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/magic-select-mario-hezonja-fifth-overall-pick|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=June 25, 2015|access-date=June 26, 2015|archive-date=June 28, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150628201447/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/magic-select-mario-hezonja-fifth-overall-pick|url-status=live}}</ref> On February 16, 2016, the Magic traded [[Tobias Harris]] to the [[Detroit Pistons]] in exchange for [[Ersan İlyasova]] and [[Brandon Jennings]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/pistons/news/detroit-pistons-acquire-forward-tobias-harris|title=Detroit Pistons Acquire Forward Tobias Harris|work=NBA.com|publisher=Turner Sports Interactive, Inc.|date=February 16, 2016|access-date=February 16, 2016|archive-date=February 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160216210707/http://www.nba.com/pistons/news/detroit-pistons-acquire-forward-tobias-harris|url-status=live}}</ref>

On May 12, 2016, Skiles stepped down as head coach of the Orlando Magic.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-scott-skiles-resigns-orlando-magic-20160512-story.html|title=Scott Skiles resigns as head coach of Orlando Magic|last=Robbins|first=Josh|date=May 12, 2016|work=Orlando Sentinel|access-date=May 12, 2016|archive-date=May 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513121601/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-scott-skiles-resigns-orlando-magic-20160512-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On May 19, the Orlando Magic agreed to a deal with former Indiana Pacers coach [[Frank Vogel]] to become the next head coach of the team.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/15613206/orlando-magic-agree-deal-frank-vogel-head-coach-position|title=Source: Magic agree to deal with Vogel as coach|date=May 19, 2016|website=ESPN.com|access-date=July 3, 2021|archive-date=July 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183103/https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/15613206/orlando-magic-agree-deal-frank-vogel-head-coach-position|url-status=live}}</ref>

With Vogel as their new coach, the Magic made many changes to their roster during the off-season. On 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]]. During free agency the Magic re-signed [[Evan Fournier]] to a five-year, $85 million contract and also signed [[Bismack Biyombo]], [[Jeff Green (basketball)|Jeff Green]], and [[D. J. Augustin]]. On July 15, [[C. J. Wilcox]] was acquired, along with cash considerations, from the Clippers in exchange for [[Devyn Marble]] and a future second round draft pick.<ref name="re-sign">{{cite news|last=Denton|first=John|title=Orlando Magic Re-Sign Evan Fournier|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-re-sign-evan-fournier|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=July 7, 2016|access-date=May 18, 2020|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308222617/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-re-sign-evan-fournier|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/magic-basketblog/os-orlando-magic-re-sign-evan-fournier-20160707-story.html|title=Orlando Magic re-sign Evan Fournier|last=Robbins|first=Josh|date=July 7, 2016|website=Orlando Sentinel|access-date=July 12, 2016|archive-date=July 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160708084231/http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/magic-basketblog/os-orlando-magic-re-sign-evan-fournier-20160707-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Magic Acquire C.J. Wilcox From Clippers|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/magic-acquire-cj-wilcox-clippers-20160715|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=July 15, 2016|access-date=July 15, 2016|archive-date=July 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160718054812/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/magic-acquire-cj-wilcox-clippers-20160715|url-status=live}}</ref>

On February 14, 2017, Ibaka was traded to the [[Toronto Raptors]] in exchange for [[Terrence Ross]] and a future first-round draft pick.<ref>{{cite news|title=Raptors Acquire Serge Ibaka From Magic|url=http://www.nba.com/raptors/press-releases/raptors-acquire-ibaka-from-magic|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=Raptors.com|date=February 14, 2017|access-date=February 14, 2017|archive-date=February 15, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170215131913/http://www.nba.com/raptors/press-releases/raptors-acquire-ibaka-from-magic|url-status=live}}</ref> The Magic finished the 2016–17 season with the third worst record in their conference, finishing 29–53.

====2017–2022: Jeff Weltman era====
[[File:Markelle Fultz (50639064136).jpg|thumb|[[Markelle Fultz]] playing for the Magic]]
In the summer of 2017, the Magic made various changes, the first being the firing of general manager Rob Hennigan on April 13. On May 23, the Magic named Jeff Weltman, the former general manager of the Toronto Raptors, as president of basketball operations and named John Hammond, the former general manager for the Milwaukee Bucks, as the new general manager. With the sixth overall pick in the [[2017 NBA draft]], Orlando drafted Florida State forward, [[Jonathan Isaac]]. During free agency the Magic signed [[Jonathon Simmons]], [[Arron Afflalo]], [[Shelvin Mack]], [[Marreese Speights]], [[Khem Birch]] and [[Adreian Payne]].

On October 6, 2017, the Magic announced that former superstar [[Tracy McGrady]], had rejoined the team as assistant to the CEO.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Woo |first1=Jeremy |date=October 6, 2017 |url=https://www.si.com/nba/2017/10/06/tracy-mcgrady-orlando-magic-assistant-ceo |title=Tracy McGrady Rejoins Magic as Special Assistant to CEO |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=September 25, 2024}}</ref>

On February 8, 2018, the Magic traded starting point guard [[Elfrid Payton (basketball)|Elfrid Payton]] to the [[Phoenix Suns]] in exchange for a 2018 second-round pick.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Wojnarowski |first1=Adrian |title=Suns acquire former first-round pick Elfrid Payton from Magic |url=http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/22370808/orlando-magic-trade-elfrid-payton-phoenix-suns-second-round-pick |website=ESPN.com |access-date=May 15, 2019 |date=February 8, 2018 |archive-date=May 14, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514210411/http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/22370808/orlando-magic-trade-elfrid-payton-phoenix-suns-second-round-pick |url-status=live }}</ref>

On April 12, 2018, head coach Frank Vogel was fired by the Magic after the conclusion of the 2017–18 regular season.<ref>{{cite news|last=Denton|first=John|title=Orlando Magic Dismiss Frank Vogel as Head Coach|url=http://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-dismiss-frank-vogel-head-coach|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|access-date=April 12, 2018|date=April 12, 2018|archive-date=November 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109033109/http://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-dismiss-frank-vogel-head-coach|url-status=live}}</ref> On May 30, the Magic named [[Steve Clifford]] as their new head coach.<ref>{{cite news|last=Denton|first=John|title=Orlando Magic Name Steve Clifford Head Coach|url=https://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-name-steve-clifford-head-coach|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=May 30, 2018|access-date=May 18, 2020|archive-date=September 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928191028/https://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-name-steve-clifford-head-coach|url-status=live}}</ref>

On June 21, 2018, the Magic drafted center [[Mohamed Bamba]] with the sixth overall pick.<ref>{{cite web |title=Mo Bamba, known for wingspan, joins Magic as sixth overall pick |url=http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23867480/2018-nba-draft-mo-bamba-taken-orlando-magic-sixth-pick |website=ESPN.com |access-date=June 26, 2018 |date=June 21, 2018 |archive-date=June 25, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625174404/http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23867480/2018-nba-draft-mo-bamba-taken-orlando-magic-sixth-pick |url-status=live }}</ref> and [[Melvin Frazier]] in the second round. Other player acquisitions included trading for [[Timofey Mozgov]] and [[Jerian Grant]] in a three-team trade for [[Bismack Biyombo]], [[Jarell Martin]] in a trade from the [[Memphis Grizzlies]], and free agent [[Isaiah Briscoe]].

On September 6, 2018, team owner [[Richard DeVos]] died aged 92 from complications from an infection.<ref>{{cite news|title=Richard M. DeVos, Co-Founder of Amway, Dies|url=https://www.nba.com/magic/news/richard-m-devos-co-founder-amway-dies|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=September 6, 2018|access-date=May 18, 2020|archive-date=May 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516170419/https://www.nba.com/magic/news/richard-m-devos-co-founder-amway-dies|url-status=live}}</ref>

During the [[2018–19 NBA season|2018–19 season]], the Magic won their sixth division title and finished in seventh place in the Eastern Conference to clinch a playoff berth for the first time since the [[2011–12 NBA season|2011–12 season]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Denton|first=John|title=Magic Clinch Playoff Berth With Win Over Celtics|url=https://www.nba.com/magic/news/magic-clinch-playoff-berth-win-over-celtics-20190407|publisher=NBA Media Ventures, LLC|website=OrlandoMagic.com|date=April 7, 2019|access-date=May 18, 2020|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806054218/https://www.nba.com/magic/news/magic-clinch-playoff-berth-win-over-celtics-20190407|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Mohamed Bamba]] was diagnosed with stress fracture on February 5, 2019,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic rookie Mohamed Bamba diagnosed with stress fracture in left leg |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-bamba-injury-0206-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |access-date=May 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190515145304/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-bamba-injury-0206-story.html |archive-date=May 15, 2019 |date=February 5, 2019}}</ref> and eventually missed the remainder of the season. At the NBA trade deadline, the Magic traded [[Jonathon Simmons]] and two draft picks to the [[Philadelphia 76ers]] for [[Markelle Fultz]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic, 76ers trade complete as Markelle Fultz, Jonathon Simmons pass physicals |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-report-0210-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |access-date=May 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190210075152/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-report-0210-story.html |archive-date=February 10, 2019 |date=February 9, 2019}}</ref> [[Nikola Vučević]] was selected as a reserve for the 2019 Eastern Conference All Star Team, being the first Orlando Magic All Star player since Dwight Howard in 2012. In March 2019, the Magic signed former NBA Rookie of the Year [[Michael Carter-Williams]] to two ten-day contracts before signing him to a one-year deal.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic officially sign Michael Carter-Williams for rest of season, waive Isaiah Briscoe |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-mcw-contract-0405-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |access-date=May 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190515151118/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-mcw-contract-0405-story.html |archive-date=May 15, 2019 |date=April 4, 2019}}</ref> The Magic were matched up against the [[Toronto Raptors]] in the first round of the [[2019 NBA playoffs]]. While the Magic won their first playoff game in seven years, the Raptors won the series in five games.

In the [[2019 NBA draft]] the Magic selected [[Chuma Okeke]] with the 16th overall pick,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic excited about versatility top pick Chuma Okeke brings to team |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-chuma-okeke-0622-20190622-jio6taa6yzax3ptzin2opd3yda-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |access-date=June 28, 2019 |date=June 20, 2019 |archive-date=June 25, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190625013206/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-chuma-okeke-0622-20190622-jio6taa6yzax3ptzin2opd3yda-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and traded its second-round pick to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]] in exchange for $2.2 million and a future draft pick.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic trade second-round pick to Lakers for 2020 pick, cash considerations |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-trade-second-pick-20190621-c3yojhs4kbazjlp7vhlwz3rieu-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |date=June 21, 2019 |access-date=November 29, 2019 |archive-date=July 10, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710183602/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-trade-second-pick-20190621-c3yojhs4kbazjlp7vhlwz3rieu-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Dennis|first=David|url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-trade-second-pick-20190621-c3yojhs4kbazjlp7vhlwz3rieu-story.html|title=Orlando Sentinel|date=June 21, 2019|access-date=June 21, 2019|archive-date=July 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710183602/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-trade-second-pick-20190621-c3yojhs4kbazjlp7vhlwz3rieu-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> With the prospect of limited playing time due to injury, the Magic and Okeke agree to sign a one-year deal with the Magic's G League affiliate in Lakeland and sign Okeke's rookie contract in the summer of 2020.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sources: Chuma Okeke Won't Sign Rookie Deal Until 2020 |url=http://www.basketballinsiders.com/sources-chuma-okeke-wont-sign-rookie-deal-until-2020 |website=www.basketballinsiders.com |access-date=September 24, 2019 |date=September 24, 2019 |archive-date=October 25, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191025183847/http://www.basketballinsiders.com/sources-chuma-okeke-wont-sign-rookie-deal-until-2020/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During the 2019 free agency, the Magic re-signed with Vučević, [[Terrence Ross]], [[Michael Carter-Williams]], and Birch,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic reportedly agree to sign Michael Carter-Williams to 1-year deal |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-carter-williams-20190701-xvrhurr3e5huhmrv73pa3rk3na-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |access-date=November 29, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703044326/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-magic-carter-williams-20190701-xvrhurr3e5huhmrv73pa3rk3na-story.html |archive-date=July 3, 2019 |date=July 1, 2019}}</ref> signed free agent [[Al-Farouq Aminu]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Meagher |first1=Sean |title=NBA free agency 2019: Al-Farouq Aminu signs 3-year deal with Orlando Magic |url=https://www.oregonlive.com/blazers/2019/06/nba-free-agency-2019-al-farouq-aminu-signs-3-year-deal-with-orlando-magic.html |website=oregonlive |access-date=November 29, 2019 |date=June 30, 2019 |archive-date=July 2, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190702123715/https://www.oregonlive.com/blazers/2019/06/nba-free-agency-2019-al-farouq-aminu-signs-3-year-deal-with-orlando-magic.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and waived Mozgov.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Roy |title=Magic receive cap relief as NBA clears remaining salary of Timofey Mozgov |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-orlando-magic-timofey-mozgov-contract-20191128-zn6un3vqwngrfj6x2h4o4osyaq-story.html |website=orlandosentinel.com |access-date=November 29, 2019 |date=November 28, 2019 |archive-date=November 29, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191129163113/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-magic/os-sp-orlando-magic-timofey-mozgov-contract-20191128-zn6un3vqwngrfj6x2h4o4osyaq-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The Magic compiled a 30–35 record before the league [[Suspension of the 2019–20 NBA season|suspended its season]] on March 11, 2020, due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]]. Following the suspension of the season, the Magic were one of the 22 teams invited to the [[2020 NBA Bubble|NBA Bubble]] to participate in the final eight seeding games of the regular season.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/news/board-of-governors-approves-nba-return-official-release|title=NBA Board of Governors approves competitive format to restart 2019-20 season with 22 teams returning to play|website=www.nba.com|access-date=July 3, 2021|archive-date=October 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022021825/https://www.nba.com/news/board-of-governors-approves-nba-return-official-release|url-status=live}}</ref> Season ending injuries to [[Jonathan Isaac]] and [[Mohamed Bamba|Mo Bamba]], along with significant injuries to [[Terrence Ross]] and [[Evan Fournier]] hampered their performance and they went 3–5 in the seeding games, but the team earned the eighth playoff spot in the Eastern Conference to face the [[Milwaukee Bucks]]. While the Magic won the opening game, Milwaukee won the next four ending the Magic's season in round one for the second year in a row.
[[File:Wagner2022.jpg|left|thumb|Franz Wagner in 2022]]
In the [[2020 NBA draft]] the Magic selected [[Cole Anthony]] with the 15th overall pick.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Jankowski|first=Jon|date=November 18, 2020|title=Orlando Magic draft Cole Anthony|work=WKMG|url=https://www.clickorlando.com/sports/2020/11/19/orlando-magic-draft-cole-anthony/|access-date=November 18, 2020|archive-date=November 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119085549/https://www.clickorlando.com/sports/2020/11/19/orlando-magic-draft-cole-anthony/|url-status=live}}</ref> The shortened free agency period followed where the Magic signed their 2019 draft pick [[Chuma Okeke]], re-signed [[James Ennis III|James Ennis]], [[Michael Carter-Williams]], and [[Gary Clark (basketball)|Gary Clark]], while adding [[Dwayne Bacon]].<ref>{{Cite news|last=Rossman-Reich|first=Philip|date=November 21, 2020|title=Orlando Magic put free agent focus on shoring up team's depth|work=Orlando Magic Daily|url=https://orlandomagicdaily.com/2020/11/21/orlando-magic-put-free-agent-focus-on-shoring-up-teams-depth/|access-date=November 21, 2020|archive-date=November 21, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201121163621/https://orlandomagicdaily.com/2020/11/21/orlando-magic-put-free-agent-focus-on-shoring-up-teams-depth/|url-status=live}}</ref> The injury [[Jonathan Isaac]] suffered during the previous season was significant enough that he was ruled out for the entire 2020–21 season.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Kaskey-Blomain|first=Michael|date=August 31, 2020|title=Jonathan Isaac to miss entire 2020–21 season after suffering knee injury in bubble, per Magic president|work=CBS Sports|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/jonathan-isaac-to-miss-entire-2020-21-season-after-suffering-knee-injury-in-bubble-per-magic-president|access-date=August 31, 2020|archive-date=October 28, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028180248/https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/jonathan-isaac-to-miss-entire-2020-21-season-after-suffering-knee-injury-in-bubble-per-magic-president/|url-status=live}}</ref> In the eighth game of the 2020–21 season, starting point guard, [[Markelle Fultz]] went down with an [[ACL tear]] in a game against the [[Cleveland Cavaliers]]. After the season-ending injury, rookie point guard, [[Cole Anthony]] would fill the starting point guard role. On January 20, 2021, Fultz underwent surgery. At the 2021 NBA trade deadline the Magic traded away [[Nikola Vučević]], [[Aaron Gordon]], and [[Evan Fournier]], each to different teams, in what has been viewed as the beginning of another rebuilding period.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Smith|first=Keith|date=March 25, 2021|title=NBA trade deadline winners and losers: Nuggets make playoff push by adding Aaron Gordon; Terrence Ross tweets through emotions|work=Yahoo Sports|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-trade-deadline-winners-and-losers-nuggets-make-playoff-push-by-adding-aaron-gordon-terrence-ross-tweets-through-emotions-220431590.html|access-date=March 25, 2021|archive-date=March 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325221414/https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-trade-deadline-winners-and-losers-nuggets-make-playoff-push-by-adding-aaron-gordon-terrence-ross-tweets-through-emotions-220431590.html|url-status=live}}</ref> At the end of the season, the team and Clifford mutually agreed to part ways.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Wojnarowski |first1=Adrian |title=Steve Clifford won't return as coach of Orlando Magic, sources say |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31571762/steve-clifford-return-coach-orlando-magic-sources-say |access-date=June 5, 2021 |website=ESPN |date=June 5, 2021 |archive-date=June 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210605164534/https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31571762/steve-clifford-return-coach-orlando-magic-sources-say |url-status=live }}</ref>

On July 11, 2021, [[Jamahl Mosley]] was named head coach after spending the previous season as an assistant coach with the Dallas Mavericks.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Orlando Magic Name Jamahl Mosley Head Coach|url=https://www.nba.com/magic/orlando-magic-name-jamahl-mosley-head-coach-20210711|website=NBA.com|date=July 11, 2021|access-date=July 11, 2021|archive-date=July 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711160220/https://www.nba.com/magic/orlando-magic-name-jamahl-mosley-head-coach-20210711|url-status=live}}</ref>

On July 29, 2021, the Magic selected [[Jalen Suggs]] with the fifth pick and [[Franz Wagner]] with the eighth pick (Acquired via the [[Chicago Bulls]] in the [[Nikola Vučević]] trade) in the [[2021 NBA draft]]. The Magic also selected Orlando native [[Jason Preston]] in the second round and promptly traded him on draft night to the [[Los Angeles Clippers]].

===2022–present: The Paolo Banchero Era===

====2022–23: First year of Banchero====
[[File:Paolo Banchero.png|thumb|Paolo Banchero was the 1st overall pick in 2022]]
On June 23, 2022, the Magic selected [[Paolo Banchero]] from [[Duke University]] with the first pick and [[Caleb Houstan]] from the [[University of Michigan]] with the 32nd pick in the [[2022 NBA draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2022 NBA Draft results: Picks 1-58 |url=https://www.nba.com/news/2022-nba-draft-order |access-date=November 14, 2023 |website=NBA.com |archive-date=June 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614212134/https://www.nba.com/news/2022-nba-draft-order |url-status=live }}</ref> Banchero helped the Magic improve their record from 22 wins to 34, averaging 20 points per game and ultimately being chosen as Rookie of the Year.<ref>{{cite web |last=Reynolds |first=Tim |date=April 26, 2023 |title=Paolo Banchero named 2022–23 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year |url=https://www.nba.com/news/paolo-banchero-named-2022-23-kia-nba-rookie-of-the-year |access-date=May 8, 2023 |website=NBA.com |archive-date=April 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230426031851/https://www.nba.com/news/paolo-banchero-named-2022-23-kia-nba-rookie-of-the-year |url-status=live }}</ref>

In May 2023, the Magic donated $50,000 to a super PAC supporting Florida governor [[Ron DeSantis]]'s 2024 presidential campaign, in what the ''New York Times'' called "the first known instance in which an NBA team directly donated to a group allied with a presidential candidate."<ref name="nyt-deb-23">{{cite news |last1=Deb |first1=Sopan |title=Orlando Magic's Political Donation Is 'Alarming,' Players' Union Says |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/03/sports/orlando-magics-political-donation-is-alarming-players-union-says.html |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=August 3, 2023 |access-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-date=August 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805005403/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/03/sports/orlando-magics-political-donation-is-alarming-players-union-says.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

On June 22, 2023, the Magic selected [[Anthony Black (basketball)|Anthony Black]] from the [[University of Arkansas]] with the sixth overall pick and [[Jett Howard]] from the [[University of Michigan]] with the 11th pick.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 NBA Draft Results: Picks 1-58 |url=https://www.nba.com/news/2023-nba-draft-order |access-date=November 14, 2023 |website=NBA.com |archive-date=June 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230604074434/https://www.nba.com/news/2023-nba-draft-order |url-status=live }}</ref>

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

On July 17, 2023, the Magic traded picks with the [[Phoenix Suns]]. The Suns received a 2023 second-round pick via the [[Denver Nuggets]], a 2026 second-round pick via the [[Los Angeles Clippers]], and a 2028 second-round pick via the Orlando Magic (protected No. 31-45).<ref name="nba.com">{{Cite web |title=Orlando Magic Acquire Right to First Round Draft Pick Swap From Phoenix |url=https://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-acquire-right-to-first-round-draft-pick-swap-from-phoenix-20230717 |access-date=November 14, 2023 |website=www.nba.com |archive-date=October 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008172715/https://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-acquire-right-to-first-round-draft-pick-swap-from-phoenix-20230717 |url-status=live }}</ref> In this deal, the Orlando Magic receive unprotected swap rights to the 2026 first-round pick of the Phoenix Suns or [[Washington Wizards]] (the Phoenix Suns owe the top of these two picks or theirs already, therefore allowing the Orlando Magic to receive the best of the left-over pick selection spots or keep their own).<ref name="nba.com"/>

====2023–present: Playoff rise====
The [[2023–24 NBA season|2023–24 season]] saw the young Orlando Magic rise as a playoff team. [[Paolo Banchero]] made his first All-Star team as a reserve for the [[Eastern Conference (NBA)|Eastern Conference]], becoming the first Magic All-Star since [[Nikola Vučević|Nikola Vucevic]] in 2021. [[Jalen Suggs]] made all defensive-second team. The Magic finished 47–35 as the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference and forced the [[Cleveland Cavaliers]] led by [[Donovan Mitchell]] to seven games in the first round of the playoffs but lost game 7.

The next offseason, the Magic did not resign former number one overall pick Markelle Fultz.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-21 |title=Former 1st Overall Pick Is Still A Free Agent On Verge Of NBA Season |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/nba/fastbreak/former-1st-overall-pick-is-still-a-free-agent-on-verge-of-nba-season-fultz |access-date=2024-11-24 |website=Fastbreak On SI |language=en-US}}</ref> They drafted [[Tristan da Silva|Tristan Da Silva]] and traded for the 47th pick which they used to select Antonio Reeves.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-13 |title=2024 NBA Draft: Breaking Down Orlando Magic Draft Class |url=https://www.si.com/nba/draft/nba-rookies/2024-nba-draft-breaking-down-orlando-magic-draft-class |access-date=2024-11-24 |website=NBA Draft On SI |language=en-US}}</ref>

On October 31st, Paolo Banchero, two games after dropping a career high 50 points, was announced injured with a torn right oblique, triggering an All-Star Leap and brief leadership role for Franz Wagner.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-02 |title=Magic's Paolo Banchero Back on Court as Return Process Begins: 'I'm Feeling Good' |url=https://www.si.com/nba/magic/news/orlando-magic-paolo-banchero-back-on-court-as-return-process-begins-feeling-good-torn-right-oblique-injury-update |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=Orlando Magic On SI |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ojeda |first=Julian |date=2024-12-05 |title=How Franz Wagner's leadership has evolved amid Paolo Banchero's injury |url=https://clutchpoints.com/magic-news-how-franz-wagner-leadership-evolved-amid-paolo-banchero-injury |access-date=2024-12-07 |website=ClutchPoints {{!}} Orlando Magic News |language=en}}</ref> However, Wagner later tore his right oblique and was announced out indefinitely. The Magic lost both their star forwards to torn obliques.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-07 |title=Magic's Wagner out indefinitely with torn oblique |url=https://www.espn.com.au/nba/story/_/id/42837763/magic-franz-wagner-indefinitely-torn-oblique |access-date=2024-12-08 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> After missing more than two months, Banchero made his return to the Orlando lineup in a loss against the Bucks, dropping 34 points and 7 rebounds.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-11 |title=Banchero stars with 34 in return, but Magic fall |url=https://www.espn.com.au/nba/story/_/id/43364596/magic-paolo-banchero-scores-34-loss-missing-34-games-torn-oblique |access-date=2025-01-12 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref>