Orlando Magic 2004 Draft Preview

The Magic, who lost 19 straight after winning their season opener against the New York Knicks, finished last season with a brutal 21-61 record. Orlando fired head coach Doc Rivers in the midst of the losing streak and replaced him with assistant and current general Johnny Davis.

Orlando needs the No. 1 pick to be a successful selection, as there are rumors of McGrady asking for a trade if the Magic does not become a winner.

The Magic have to be running out of hope for the return of a healthy Grant Hill. Orlando needs to get a second threat to McGrady so its opponents will stop concentrating on just one player.

Connecticut’s Emeka Okafor should be the pick for Orlando. He will be able to step right in and give the Magic an inside presence who can block shots and score around the basket. Okafor should help make McGrady a happy player.

However, do not rule out the Magic selecting high school sensation Dwight Howard. There are concerns about Okafor’s back which could make Orlando shy away from picking the Connecticut product.

Key Player(s): Drew Gooden (forward), Juwan Howard (forward), Tracy McGrady (forward/guard), DeShawn Stevenson (forward).

Team Needs: toughness down low, a shot blocker and a point guard.

Draft picks: 1st round (1st overall), 2nd round (30th overall), 2nd round (36th overall), 2nd round (42nd overall).