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Coming off of a pathetic 21-61 season, the Orlando Magic aren't exactly generating a lot of buzz going into the 20004-05 season. Nevertheless, while the national networks, journalists and so-called "basketball experts" continue to hype everyone else, most notably our Miami cousins, the Magic are quietly rebuilding their team back to respectablity.

While many are still lamenting the trade that sent Tracy McGrady packin', the Magic have only gotten stronger.

Sure, we lost a bonafide superstar, but remember: we also only won 21 games with that bonafide superstar.

That being said, let's look at who the Magic do have this season:

At the 1, we're now saddled with Steve Francis and Jameer Nelson. While some may argue that Stevie's production dropped dramatically last season, you also have to look at the style of game he was forced into. The Magic don't plan on putting Francis into an offensive box like Jeff Van Gundy did in Houston. Here, he'll be allowed to do what he does best -- run and gun!

And, you fantasy ballers out there should take a hint.

As for Nelson, he's no Mateen Cleaves. He should have been a top 5 draft choice - if it weren't for the underclassmen fetishes of some of the GMs in this league. At any rate, he's the perfect backup, and those two trump ANYTHING we had last year at the point.

At the 2, we've got Cat Mobley and DeShawn Stevenson, who together should be able to make up for TMac's offensive output.

At the three, we have Hedo Turkoglu and Keith Bogans. Again, these names might not jump out at you, but it's way better than ANYTHING we had last year. Both are versatile players with great range. Both add a new dimension to the team.

And of course, there's always the possible (yes, possible) return of Mr. Grant Hill. But that's all I'll say about that.

At the 4 it's teen-phenom Dwight Howard. While we're not expecting Lebron-esque numbers from our guy, he will certainly surprise a lot of people. Howard is extremely versatile with a soft touch, a great rebounder and an even better shot-blocker. While he's still years away from reaching his potential, he will certainly quiet all the Emeka Okafor lovers who are still livid at the fact that we chose him.

Patience, people.

Behind D12 is a returning Pat Garrity, one of the most deadly outside shooters in the league. As a PF, he'll once again pull his man away from the basket and cause plenty of matchup problems.

At the center spot we have Kelvin Cato and Tony Battie. Again, these guys aren't world beaters, but they are hard, tough-nosed ball players who certainly do a decent job filling the void that Shaq left us with. And trust me, it's a lot better than Andrew DeClerq starting!

So, will the Magic make the playoffs? Given the wide-openness of the East, they very well could sneak into the 7-8 spot. Remember: Francis and Mobley were willing the Rockets into the playoffs long before Yao came onto the season. These two are winners and play their hearts out each and every night.

So, no playoffs guarantee here, but watch out. We just might make it onto ESPN.