The Magic were criticized last year during their playoff run for being too dependent on the three. Live by the three die by the three. Chris Webber of TNT was particularly critical of the Magic’s perimeter reliance. There was no way they could sustain it, that was the consensus. Yet, they kept shooting and shooting, all the way to the NBA Finals.
Well, this year, the Magic were wiser, more experienced, deadlier. They weren’t going to shoot the three point ball as much.
They shot it more.
The Orlando Magic set an NBA record for most made three pointers in a single season with their 838th make, besting the 837 rattled home by the Suns in ’06. The Magic finished with 841.
The three pointer has become more important with how the game has evolved. The three pointer in the playoffs often comes as the result of a drive and dish from penetration. It’s an open look often-times, which is hard to come by, and it’s an efficient shot. So while defense and tough play are still the hallmarks of a contender, the Magic are using the formula of athletic defenders that can shoot the longball to make a run at a title.
Well, done, shooters. Well done.