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The Indiana Pacers open up a promising season on Tuesday night when they host the Orlando Magic. After fluctuating (some may prefer flatulent, at times) preseason results, the Pacers appear ready to jump out of the gate with a starting unit that came one win away from the NBA Finals last season and a bench that promises to add instead of detract from the team's efforts to take another big step this season.
The Magic are in rebuilding mode and boast former Indiana Hoosier, Victor Oladipo among the young building blocks. But Vic is not alone on the Magic blueprint. The team recently picked up options for other promising, young players Nikola Vucevic, Tobias Harris, Andrew Nicholson and Maurice Harkless. Harris is dealing with an ankle injury and may not be available against the Pacers, but the other youngster will be motivated to play well and establish a the core of players surrounding Oladipo and another future draft pick which could have the Magic rising once again in the East.
But while the Magic appear to be ready to climb back up the Eastern Conference ladder, that won't be for another couple of years and tonight it is all about the Pacers jumping out to a 1-0 start at home by taking care of business in a game they should win going away.
For more on the Magic, check out Orlando Pinstriped Post. Check out all of the links and other stories about the game in the Story Stream. Also, leave your thoughts and observations on the game in the comments.