Orlando Magic’s Joseph Transforms Season as Playoff Push Intensifies

ORLANDO, Fla. — Veteran guard Joseph has revitalized his career with the Orlando Magic, becoming a crucial asset in the team’s playoff push. At 33, Joseph brings both experience and leadership to a young roster, having found his footing after a tumultuous previous season.

Since joining the Magic, Joseph’s performance has significantly improved, contributing to the team’s surge toward playoff contention. Notably, he previously played a supporting role with the San Antonio Spurs during their 2014 championship run. Reflecting on his journey, Joseph expressed gratitude for the opportunity in Orlando. “It’s amazing,” he said. “I’m blessed. The organization has been amazing to me. I’m just trying to get out there and play as hard as I can to repay them for what they did for me.”

Last season, Joseph was without a team and was traded from the Golden State Warriors to the Indiana Pacers at the trade deadline, only to be waived shortly after. This year, he seems to have found a stable environment in Orlando, proving essential to the team’s strategy.

Meanwhile in Detroit, the Pistons faced a potential setback as forward Isaiah Stewart underwent imaging on his leg after the team’s Game 1 loss to the New York Knicks. Stewart, who has battled injury during the season, faced challenges in the matchup, scoring only two points and grabbing five rebounds in 19 minutes of play. With Detroit striving for its first playoff victory since 2019, Stewart’s health will be closely monitored.

Stewart, who stands at 6 feet 8 inches, had adapted to a reduced role this season under new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. Throughout the regular season, he averaged 6.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game, contributing significantly to the Pistons’ playoff aspirations.

The Pistons will be looking to bounce back in their next matchup against the Knicks on Monday, aiming for a victory to level the series.