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NBA Power Rankings Week 3: A new number one has arrived

By Jack Simone

Nov 6, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) controls the ball against Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley (11) during the second half at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 6, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) controls the ball against Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley (11) during the second half at FTX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports /
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Franz Wagner #22 and Cole Anthony #50 of the Orlando Magic celebrate against the San Antonio Spurs (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Week 3 NBA power rankings: 27. Orlando Magic

Previous: 30th. Orlando Magic. 27. team. 38. . 2-8

Last week: (1-2) – @ MIN (W), vs. BOS (L), vs. SAS (L)

Offensive rating: 101.7 (25th in NBA)

Defensive rating: 110.4 (27th in NBA)

Despite the poor record, the Orlando Magic have a few good things going for them. Namely, both Cole Anthony and rookie Franz Wagner have been playing insanely well.

Orlando’s week was highlighted by a big-time win over the Timberwolves in which Anthony looked amazing. He had 31 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists in the victory.

Their team is extremely young, and therefore they probably won’t end up winning a ton of games. This is another team that is fully focused on developing their young players.

Teams are also anxiously awaiting the return of players such as Markelle Fultz and Jonathan Isaac. The Magic have had a tough time with injuries in recent years.

Season outlook: Just like most of the teams down in this realm of the rankings, the Magic don’t really care about their record. They simply want to let their young guys flourish. A trip to the lottery is all but certain for Orlando this season, and that’s exactly what they want.