Orlando Magic Competitive at Every Position, Says Cole Anthony

As the Orlando Magic works on the final kinks to prepare for the 2023-24 NBA season, one thing not on the docket for fans to worry about is questions regarding the starting lineup.

Assuming everyone is healthy, the Magic will be touting out a starting five of Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr.

Jonathan Isaac and Cole Anthony will be the first two off the bench, as both have proven themselves to be solid role players when available. However, that solid starting lineup may have adjustments made sooner than later, as Cole Anthony implied that not everyone is happy-go-lucky with their spot in the rotation.

"We've had a lot of very highly competitive practices, just because we have a lot of dudes that can play and we have a lot of competitive dudes," Anthony said.

If the Magic have bought into the “practice like you play” mentality and there are competitive players at every position, talent alone might not be enough for established players to keep their starting spot. If the Magic is serious about a playoff berth, a competitive attitude will beat out talent every time, and the starters will need to maintain their edge.

Luckily for fans, there is no indication that anyone on the team fails to compete. From bonafide stars like Franz and Banchero playing in the FIBA World Cup to rookies asking for help with their game, it seems like everyone on the roster is focused on getting better, staying hungry, and building long-term success in central Florida.