The first of many offseason changes in the NBA occurred today when the Orlando Magic fired coach Stan Van Gundy and mutually agreed with General Manager Otis Smith to part ways. Van Gundy had a 259-135 records in five seasons with Magic, leading them to three division titles and made the playoffs each of the five seasons Van Gundy coached.
Did Howard have a deciding factor in Van Gundy and Smith's futures with the team? Now with Van Gundy and Smith out, will Howard sign a long term contract with the Magic or want to go to a contending team? Will teams be as interested in Howard now, after his back surgery/injuries? Who will coach the Magic next season? Phil Jackson? Mike D'Antoni? Jerry Sloan? Nate McMillan? Or will they hire an assistant coach such as Patrick Ewing, Brian Shaw, or Michael Malone?
Let the speculations begin (again). This season, Dwight Howard went back and forth about staying or leaving the Magic this offseason. It caused uncertainty and in-house problems with the front office, management, and team. At times during the season, he wanted to be traded, notified the Magic of which teams he wanted to play for (Lakers, Mavericks, Nets, Knicks, Bulls, Clippers), and told the organization he would only resign with them if Van Gundy was fired and/or they signed/traded for players that would make the team better. After all of the theatrics, Howard decided to waive his early termination option. He will be returning for his final year of his deal next season and earn $19.5 million.
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