Nikola Jokic Among NBA Stars to Pick Orlando Magic as Sleeper in East

The Orlando Magic is looking to surprise people this year with exceeding expectations, and multiple NBA stars believe that they could succeed.

The Orlando Magic has gotten off to a strong start to begin the season, which is more than some expected of the team coming in.

The Magic's start to the season is better than some Eastern Conference playoff teams from last year, including the New York Knicks, and the Miami Heat, who made it all the way to the NBA Finals this past season.

This strong start to the season has put the rest of the league on notice, and now the Magic is getting the respect that it deserves. NBA superstars Nikola Jokic and Anthony Edwards are among the people who believe the Magic could make some noise this season.

A player as dominant as Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic endorsing the Orlando Magic could lead to more eyes being on the team / Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

When asked about what Eastern Conference team that they thought could do better than expected, both Edwards and Jokic said the Magic without any hesitation. The fact that players of their caliber are respecting the Magic should give fans of the team a lot of confidence.

Perhaps the most important factor in the team's success up to this point in the season has not only been the starters, but the great play from the Magic's bench as well. The team always has at least five players in double digits every game, meaning that the ball is spread around the floor and the team is always looking for the best shot on each and every possession. This style of play could lead to the Magic making some noise in not just the NBA In-Season Tournament, but perhaps the NBA Playoffs as well.