NBA Power Rankings 18: A new top team as the playoffs approach

HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 23: Paul George #13 of the Los Angeles Clippers walks in reverse to the bench during a timeout in the fourth quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on April 23, 2021 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images ) /

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Orlando Magic. 28. team. 38. . 18-41. Previous: 28th

Last Week: Lost to Houston Rockets 114-110, Lost to Atlanta Hawks 112-96, Lost to New Orleans Pelicans 135-100

This Week: 4/25 vs. Indiana Pacers, 4/26 vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 4/28 at Cleveland Cavaliers, 4/30 at Memphis Grizzlies, 5/1 vs. Memphis Grizzlies

This was a big week for the Orlando Magic as the Detroit Pistons won a game and now the teams are tied for the worst record in the Eastern Conference. Forcing their way into the top three of lottery odds should feel good for a team with a chance at two lottery picks to bolster their rebuild quickly. The on-court product, however, has been less than exciting.

The Magic have lost nine of their last 10 games and are grasping at the developmental straws to see what sticks. In April, eight members of the Magic have appeared in at least seven games and are averaging double figures in scoring. Leading the way is the surprising resurgence of Wendell Carter Jr., the prized young talent brought back in the trade for franchise cornerstone Nikola Vucevic.

This month, the former lottery pick is averaging 15.4 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals in just 29.7 minutes per game. He is showing the promise that got him drafted as highly as he was and has been unleashed without the significant expectations that come from playing for the team that drafted you.

Also in April, Cole Anthony has fully returned to the lineup and has been promising in 26.6 minutes per game. Efficiency remains a problem, but for a team growing each game, bumps along the way are to be expected. This will be a totally different team next year. Now is just about seeing who can fit along with the returning players and draft picks.