Well, it's been a while...

Well, I guess when I gave my blog a title that included the word "devotion" I really didn't envision myself failing so miserably in living up to such a standard. Student teaching really made the act of blogging difficult. In fact, between that and my part time job last semester, I barely had time to breathe! I guess in looking back at last season's finish, though I was certainly disappointed, I can't say I was at all surprised. The Magic lost to a Celtics team that had more size, more versatility, more poise, and more experience. I was a little surprised at the way it was happening though through the first three games. I will openly admit I didn't see the Magic dropping the first two at home and then getting shellacked in game three in Boston. But, oh well. Right? The problem now is the fact that not only are the Heat looking just as impressive these days as all of the off-season hype suggested they would, but the Bulls and even the Knicks (yes, not a typo, the KNICKS!) are looking better than the Magic these days. I really don't have much in the way of expectations for the Magic this season--maybe a second round birth? That in no way changes my status as devoted fan (I would root for the Magic if they were as destitute a franchise as the Clippers; no offense, Clipper Nation), but it is disappointing considering their appearance in the 2009 finals and their seeming legitimate opportunity at a championship last season, particularly with home court advantage not only in their matchup against the Celtics, but had they advanced to the finals, against the 2010 version of the Lakers as well. I think the problem lies in our overpaid "stars" Rashard Lewis and Vince Carter, particularly the former. While Carter is not what he used to be, he can still create off the dribble, finish at the rim at least at times, and has that wonderfully agreeable contract that labels his 17 million dollars due next year as a team option (Lord, let Otis Smith do the right thing...). I wouldn't even have a problem with Carter resigning for a couple of years at a considerably lower price tag (maybe 7 million per?), but Rashard Lewis' contract is sooo bloated and sooo long, there is no possibility that we could ever trade him and there is no way (unless he makes the most miraculous strides as a player in the shortest amount of time in the history of the game) he will ever come anywhere near worth the money he's receiving. Rashard Lewis is a glorified stand-still three point shooter. What else does he do? I think his defense is decent, and I suppose he can shoot off of one bounce, but really, what else does he bring to the table? He has never rebounded, particularly for a guy his size. He doesn't handle the basketball overly well, and he certainly doesn't get to the basket and finish. He doesn't possess a better-than-average post game. He isn't a great passer or creator by any stretch of the imagination. So tell me, what is it that made the Magic decide to pay him 17 million per for however many seasons (I can't remember if it was six or seven)? I am not even questioning that his presence has helped the Magic get to the finals in 2009 and the Eastern Conference Finals last season; I know it has. However, I am positive that the money spent on Lewis could be spent far better on even two players for 8 and 9 million dollars per respectively. I mean, I would be tempted to take a guy like Wesley Matthews (making 7 million this season) for Rashard Lewis straight across. Matthews isn't quite the shooter, but I think he's a better individual defender, and unlike Lewis (Mr. Stagnant, as I've affectionately decided to name him) he's actually improving! Anyway, there is my Rashard Lewis rant my adoring fans. I hope you enjoyed...ugh...this offseason, I was really hoping that Chris Paul might end up in an Orlando Magic uniform. I began to realize very quickly however, with the way the Hornets started the season, that such a gift wasn't likely coming our way. The Magic need to make some changes. We need a legitimate four to play alongside Howard. I think Brandon Bass is doing a good job of filling in as that, and I hope he continues to start, but lets be honest, he would probably be better served coming off the bench. Anyway, I will be waiting and watching. I look forward to the Magic's matchup with the Celtics on Christmas Day. That will be an important test, as they say. One which, basketball Gods willing, they won't miserably fail...