Despite Finals Loss, Elite Status Imminent for the Orlando Magic

Orlando was stopped short of its goal on Sunday night—its first NBA championship. The Magic were handed their eighth NBA Finals loss of all time, losing 99-86 to the 2008-2009 NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers. However, the feelings of Orlando players, coaches, staff, and fans should depict optimism rather than sadness. Orlando (59-23) undoubtedly had its best season in its 20-year existence during the 2008-2009 campaign. Its 59-win season is second all-time only to the 60-win season the '95-'96 team achieved. The Magic's magical playoff run included 13 wins and 11 losses, with thrilling finishes in every stage. One of those 13 wins was Orlando's first ever NBA Finals win (1-8). Even more history was broken at the hands of the Magic during the playoffs. The Boston Celtics, who were previously unbeaten in homecourt closeout games, are now 32-1 in that respective category. Also, Orlando's amazing 75 percent shooting display in the first half of Game Three of the NBA Finals was the ... (link)