Unfortunately things just never came together for the Magic in the 2003-2004 season. After winning the season opener in New York, Orlando lost a franchise record 19 straight games. Injuries once again plagued the Magic, and they were never able to recover from their brutal start. Grant Hill was unavailable all season, and Pat Garrity saw action in only one game as he spent the year recovering from knee surgery. Though the 21-61 campaign was more than a little disappointing the Magic did have some bright moments.

Tracy McGrady was the NBA Scoring Champion for the second straight season and on February 2nd McGrady became the second-youngest player in the history of the NBA to reach 10,000 points in a career. McGrady also rewrote the Magic record books when he exploded for a franchise record 62 points in a March 10th win over the Washington Wizards. McGrady was once again electrifying on the court, but it was off-the-court changes that are going to shape the Magic over the next few seasons. Johnny Davis was promoted to head coach in Novermber, and John Weisbrod was named the new General Manager in March.

With new leadership in place and a new attitude being formed, the Magic will look to restore optimism and put themselves back in the playoffs. Gone are Tracy McGrady, Juwon Howard and Drew Gooden, yet a return to the playoffs is likely for Mickey Mouse's favorite team. Steve Francis and Cuttino Mobley freed from Jeff Van Gundy will lead the charge as the Conference's most potent backcourt, while first pick overall Dwight Howard looks to provide the kind of athleticism upfront that Amare Stoudemire did for Phoenix in his rookie season. A healthy Grant Hill (chuckle, chuckle) would be a boost and the additions of Hedo Turkoglu, Jameer Nelson, Kelvin Cato and Tony Battie will provide the depth necessary to make the play offs and even challenge the Heat in the Southeast Division.