The NBA released its 2016-17 regular-season schedule on Thursday. As Orlando Magic fans peruse their team's schedule, here are the five games they should circle on their calendar:
Oct. 26: Miami Heat at Magic
The season opener is a chance for the Magic to debut their new frontcourt led by Serge Ibaka and holdover Nikola Vucevic with free-agent center Bismack Biyombo off the bench. The Magic went for defense and rebounding over the summer in hopes of turning into a more defense-oriented team under first-year head coach Frank Vogel. The Heat will debut the post Dwayne Wade era in what is sure to be a transition season.
Nov. 14: Magic at Indiana Pacers
Vogel returns to a place where he went 250-181 as coach, including two Eastern Conference finals appearances. But his tenure ended with a first-round loss last season.
Jan. 22: Magic vs. Golden State Warriors
The Magic, like every team in the NBA, will have their calendars tuned to this date with the Warriors and superstars Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant and Draymond Green coming to town.
March 11: Cleveland Cavaliers at Magic
The defending NBA champions are always a good bet to generate excitement and the Magic's big frontcourt should provide a test for the Cavaliers.
March 29: Oklahoma City Thunder at Magic
This is an interesting game for both teams as Ibaka was traded from the Thunder to the Magic for rising shooting guard Victor Oladipo, the onetime No. 2 overall pick of the Magic. It was a move fraught with risks for both sides as each revamped the look of the team with the trade.
