For the second time in their history, the Orlando Magic face an experienced team in the NBA Finals, while at the same time, having little experience themselves. In 1995, the Magic led by Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway were swept by the defending champion Houston Rockets, led by Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler.
After blowing a huge lead in Game 1 of that series, the Magic never recovered. But this year, the Magic know how to play with leads. But more impressive is the way they have been able to overcome large deficits. Against Cleveland in the eastern conference finals they overcame large halftime deficits in games one and two, and made great comebacks against the Celtics in the eastern semifinals.
The Magic have proven that their lack of experience on the court, and in coaching as well with head man Stan Van Gundy, is not an issue. But the Finals are a different stage. The triumphs and failures are magnified greater, and many never get back for a second chance.
The best player in the Finals, Magic C Dwight Howard, had never been passed the first round before this postseason, along with several teammates including Rafer Alston, and Jameer Nelson.
Their opponents, the Los Angeles Lakers, have a lot of NBA Finals experience after last year’s Finals loss to the Boston Celtics. But for their leader Kobe Bryant, this is his sixth NBA Finals, having won 3.
The Magic need to play with the attitude that they were not even supposed to be here (Hey, did anyone think at the start of the year Cleveland or Boston would not be here?), and that they have nothing to lose. They cannot be blinded by the bright lights of the TV cameras, the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, and the aura of the many celebrities sitting courtside.
When the game is close in the 4th quarter, how will the Magic respond to a call that does not go their way? How will they respond to a quick Laker run? Most of the burden will fall on head coach Stan Van Gundy to not allow his team to get tense and panic.
But the Magic are a fun and laid back team, which is the best approach to preparing for the biggest games of your career. Do not be in awe, the fact that you are here proves you are a quality team. Take note of past young teams to win titles early in their first NBA Finals experience (1980 Lakers, 1981 Celtics, 1999 Spurs, 2006 Heat).
Predicting the 2009 NBA Finals, I see no way the Magic will lose. They pose too many matchup issues for Los Angeles with Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu. They have two solid point guards in Rafer Alston, and Jameer Nelson who is probable for the series. Their bench is solid with guard Mikael Pietrus who can guard Kobe Bryant, and provide excellent 3pt shooting.
Inexperience will be an issue at certain times, but I will take the best players over experience every day, so for the Magic, if they limit the rookie mistakes, and match the Lakers fortitude, a first NBA championship should be theirs.