Orlando Magic Coach Jacque Vaughn can learn from Doc Rivers

Rivers coached the Magic to a 42-40 record with a mediocre squad. Rivers’ best option was a diminutive Darrell Armstrong, a quality sixth man thrust into a role as a full-time starter. A rookie Corey Maggette filled the baselines. A budding defensive stud Ben Wallace sported a corn row haircut and his massive fro. Life was good.

The Magic now have a chance to revive those “heart and hustle” years. It wasn’t a period of time marked by contention, but rather gutsy play that left the O-Rena pleased. Hustle ovations were common. The Magic were a team we wanted to watch.

Mar 22, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Georgetown Hoyas forward Otto Porter Jr. (22) shoots during the first half against the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles during the second round of the 2013 NCAA tournament at the Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

2013 NBA Draft: Orlando Magic Have Options to Build Perimeter Defense

Otto Porter of Georgetown has drawn mass interest and shot up the draft boards. With a similar (but maybe inferior?) talent in Moe Harkless, the Magic may pass on a chance to do something few teams have had the chance to do: stack the perimeter with tough defenders.

The chances of super teams like the Miami Heat convening remain high as the league progresses towards a state lacking parity in all forms. If a Heat-like trio came together, Porter and Harkless would be there every step of the way pestering them.