The Orlando Magic acquired two elite shot-blockers this summer in Serge Ibaka and Bismack Biyombo. These two players have high expectations for the Magic’s defense this season:
Bismack Biyombo expects the Magic to be a top 5 defensive team. Also says building chemistry is key. #MagicMediaDay
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 26, 2016
Biyombo also says he just wants to play and contribute. Doesn't matter if he starts or comes off bench. #MagicMediaDay
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 26, 2016
Ibaka thinks they can have the best defense in the NBA. And when he is paired with Biyombo "welcome to the block party!" #MagicMediaDay
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 26, 2016
Ibaka will come in as a team leader right away on both ends of the floor. Biyombo will likely come off the bench, but his rim protection and rebounding should be huge for Orlando’s second unit.
Best in the league is probably a bit of a stretch (sorry Ibaka) but this defense should be superb. Ibaka and Biyombo are both elite defenders, as are Elfrid Payton and Aaron Gordon. Really, this team needs elite defense to stay afloat. With Elfrid Payton and small forward Aaron Gordon in the starting lineup, this offense will have a severe lack of spacing, and will probably be among the league’s worst.
