NBA: Preseason Ranking for the Eastern Conference

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Mar 29, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon (00) dunks against the Brooklyn Nets during the first quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

13. Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic will have a different feel in 2016-17.

Enter Frank Vogel and Serge Ibaka. Exit Victor Oladipo.

Vogel is just the start of why Orlando could be intriguing. The longtime Indiana Pacers coach was brought in to try to take the Magic places they have not been since Dwight Howard was in town. However, the Magic dealt former building block Victor Oladipo to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Serge Ibaka.

Ibaka brings a steady defensive presence to the Magic, but if things don’t go well he can bolt after the season. The Magic acquired Ibaka knowing full well that he is a UFA after the 2016-17 season.

Regardless of if Ibaka departs next year, he is there this year, and he’s just part of what’s interesting about Orlando’s roster. Yes, Oladipo is gone. But the Magic still have Aaron Gordon, Nikola Vucevic, Mario Hezonja, Elfrid Payton and others. Can Vogel get the most out of this roster? That remains to be seen. The Magic have many young pieces, with Ibaka being the main veteran presence. The Magic may be better than in the past few years, but intuition would suggest they are still a few years away.

Next: No. 12