The Orlando Magic were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday in Game 5 of their first round series. Nobody really gave the Magic much of a chance in this series once they lost Dwight Howard, so the result isn't very surprising. But now the Magic must look ahead, to what is going to be a pretty trying offseason. At least that's what Orlando Pinstriped Post seems to think.
While Indiana celebrates and moves forward this season, Orlando faces a tense offseason, arguably the most pivotal in team history. Van Gundy is likely gone as coach, and Otis Smith, the team's President of Basketball Operations, ought to follow. Nelson, who shares co-captaincy duties with Howard and serves as the club's only NBA-caliber point guard, could become a free agent by declining his player option. Anderson, the NBA's Most Improved Player, enters restricted free agency and could sign a rich offer sheet elsewhere.
The Dwight Howard saga has not reached it's end, and that is only one of a handful of storylines that could change the direction of this franchise. Buckle up everybody, it's going to be a bumpy ride.
To stay updated throughout the first round series between the Magic and Pacers, follow thisStoryStream. For more on the Orlando Magic, check out Orlando Pinstriped Post. For more on the Indiana Pacers, check out Indy Cornrows. All your NBA news and analysis can be found at SB Nation's NBA hub.