ORLANDO – While coach Steve Clifford is quick to point out that early-season games in the NBA are "a little bit of a crapshoot," he still has an unwavering confidence that his Orlando Magic are ready for what lies ahead over the next 82 games.
The Magic open their 30th anniversary season tonight against the rival Miami Heat at the Amway Center. Clifford, who was an assistant coach during Orlando’s most recent glory days from 2007-12, has been hired to get the franchise back into contention. Since he was hired in late May, Clifford has sensed an intense hunger among the Magic’s players and he’s seen it manifest itself in the manner in which they have worked throughout training camp and the preseason.