Read our quick takes from Orlando’s 108-95 loss to Toronto.
Elfrid Payton’s Bounce Back is Important.
Payton finished one assist shy of a double double and had a career high 16 points. After a rough showing against John Wall Thursday, it was encouraging to see the rookie shake it off and put up his best game. Perhaps most importantly, after a six turnover showing versus the Wizards, Payton only coughed it up once against the Raptors.
Third Quarters Kill the Magic.
Through three games, Orlando has been outscored by 32 points in the third. It seems like the Magic hang tough with teams throughout the first half and then falter as they get into the final 24 minutes. This will be an interesting trend to follow as we go forward.
Can Evan Fournier Provide Consistent Offense?
For the second straight game, Fournier was a leading source of offense. He contributed a team high 18 points. If he is able to keep it up, there is no question the 21 year old will be a major rotation piece even upon the return of Victor Oladipo.
Weekend Crowd Needs to Step Up.
While the listed attendance read 16,141, the actual crowd was most likely short of that. I spend a good amount of time defending the Orlando sports fan, but I think it’s important to see a larger crowd at the weekend games. The various obstacles associated with attending midweek games are understandable, but Amway should be packed for any Friday-Saturday action.
Lowry/DeRozan a Vision of the Orlando Future.
Watching the talented Raptors backcourt go for over 20 points apiece, one could not help but think that duo is what the Magic are trying to build towards with Payton and Oladipo. When Oladipo does return, the most important thing to watch the rest of the season will be how he gels with his rookie point guard and projecting where that duo could take the franchise in the future.
