Episode Details

The Orlando Magic's Playoff hopes hang by a thread after a sixth straight loss. Paolo Banchero looked like a superstar again, carrying the Magic into the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers with another 36 points. But his team struggled to step up and support him and the defense never stiffened, allowing Donovan Mitchell and James Harden to outshine him.

It is clear -- and has been clear -- that there are major roster deficiencies. Already there are big questions that the Magic need to ask: How much have this season's shortcomings been credited to injuries and how much is a deep flaw to the roster?

Injuries have been a constant story for this team since November. They have rarely seen their projected opening night lineup together. But while that has certainly knocked the team back into the Play-In race, it is not the only reason the team has struggled.

Orlando's front office invested too much in defenders who did not have the offensive skills to keep up in the new NBA. The team's depth has been stretched too thin and the Magic cannot field a roster with enough Playoff-ready players for this time of year.

The good news is that Franz Wagner is starting to make progress in his return from a high ankle sprain, practicing with the Osceola Magic on Monday. His potentially imminent return could save the Magic's season in the final 10 games.

00:00 Team Challenges

05:27 Team Struggles Amid Key Injuries

14:01 Magic's Season in Crisis

20:46 Magic's Offensive Weaknesses Persist

25:10 Magic Coaching Opportunity Sparks Interest

30:10 Magic's Playoff Push Progresses

35:07 Franz Wagner: Defensive Anchor

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

TurboTax

This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.

Robinhood

You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood.

Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm.

5-Hour ENERGY

Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering $300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that e