'Washington Magic?' Commanders Trying to Steal Orlando Name?
ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic has been around for nearly 35 years as one of sports' most unique team names. However, the franchise may have some company in the coming year.
Magic Johnson, one of the main partners in Josh Harris' ownership group to buy the Washington Commanders for $6.05 billion, went on the Today Show last week to discuss the sale and mentioned the idea of changing the name of the team.
“I think everything’s on the table, especially after this year,” Johnson said. “We’ll see what we are with the name, but I can’t say that right now.”
BetOnline has released odds for the new Commanders name, and the Magic or Magicians is listed with the fourth-best odds at +900.
The three teams with higher odds are the Spartans (+600), the Football Team/Club (+700) and Red Hogs (+800).
The Washington Magic would be an ironic name change, but it does go hand in hand with the Washington Wizards, D.C.'s NBA team. That being said, the Orlando Magic is one of the Wizards' biggest rivals.
Also, Josh Harris is the governor for the Philadelphia 76ers and likely wouldn't adopt a team name for a brand that he has worked against. On top of that, Harris is a lifelong Washington football fan and likely won't choose to stray too far from the team's history if the team changes the moniker.
The chances of the Commanders changing their name to the Magic is slim, but imitation is a form of flattery, and Orlando will gladly accept the compliment.
You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Magic? Click Here.
Follow The Magic Insider on Facebook.
Follow The Magic Insider on Twitter.
Want even more Orlando Magic news? Check out the SI.com team page here.
