A Season within the Air
The Orlando Magic will log extra air miles than some other NBA workforce through the upcoming season. In line with a examine by Chris Gunther of Charting Hoops, Orlando’s schedule requires almost 50,000 miles of journey—roughly equal to circling the globe twice.
That heavy load separates the Magic from groups with lighter schedules. The Indiana Pacers, for instance, will journey about 18,000 fewer miles than Orlando.
Worldwide Journeys Add to the Burden
A key motive for Orlando’s journey calls for is its worldwide slate. In January, the Magic will play two video games abroad towards the Memphis Grizzlies. The primary will probably be in Berlin on January 15, adopted by a matchup in London on January 18. That four-day stretch accounts for hundreds of additional miles.
Gunther’s evaluation highlighted how journey impacts efficiency. “The outcomes are considerably blended, however there may be some proof over the past three seasons, that when groups don’t journey a lot in a given month, their profitable share goes up in comparison with their season lengthy common. Conversely, within the months when they’re touring probably the most, their profitable share drops.”
Youth on Orlando’s Aspect
The Magic’s roster, one of many youngest within the league, might assist the workforce deal with the calls for higher than veteran-heavy squads. Nonetheless, Gunther notes that fifty,000 miles can problem any workforce, no matter age. Again-to-back video games add to the issue, since groups touring extra typically in these stretches relaxation much less.
Geographic Drawback
Orlando shares this unfortunate distinction with different groups situated removed from the league’s heart. The Portland Path Blazers, Miami Warmth, Los Angeles Clippers, and Golden State Warriors all rank close to the highest of the mileage record. Their distance from many NBA markets forces lengthy flights all through the season. For Orlando, even a single journey to Portland covers 2,526 miles.
A Take a look at for Jamahl Mosley’s Squad
The Magic already face considerations about well being and environment friendly capturing. Now, the league’s hardest journey schedule turns into one other impediment. Head coach Jamahl Mosley will probably be tasked with conserving his younger workforce recent, targeted, and aggressive whereas managing fatigue from fixed flights.
The schedule is ready. For Orlando, success might rely upon how properly the workforce adjusts to life within the air.
