Orlando Magic must win the race to the seventh seed

This is the Orlando Magic’s chance to show they have taken a step forward and have a competitive series. It is now or never for the Magic.

The expectations for the Orlando Magic going into this year were higher than simply making the playoffs.

The Magic were supposed to compete and fight for home-court advantage or aim to finish fifth or sixth in the Eastern Conference. At the least, the team wanted to compete with a real chance to win their first-round playoff series.

Nearly 60 games into the season, it is clear none of that will happen. The Magic have struggled this season to make shots and they have let that affect their defense. All of that has led them to have a 24-32 record and the…