The Orlando Magic will host the Houston Rockets at Amway Center on Wednesday.

The Magic open the season as a team that’s very hard to predict when it comes to their potential playoff chances. On the one hand, they feature one of the most exciting young players in the league in Paolo Banchero, as well as a decent young core that includes Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony. However, they also posted a 34-38 record in 2022-23, and it’s not like they added major pieces to their current roster. Orlando is banking on internal improvements and progression of their young players to take a leap forward in 2023-24. The Magic also added Anthony Black via the 2023 NBA Draft, but it’s hard to see him contributing right away in a guard-heavy roster.

The Magic are listing Gary Harris (groin) as questionable for the season opener, while Kevon Harris (knee) has been ruled out.

The Rockets might have similar expectations to the Magic, as they’re another rebuilding team that will rely on young talent to make an impact in 2023-24. However, the franchise seems ready to take a leap forward, especially given their offseason activity. They signed two coveted free agents, Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, and they also hired a proven head coach in Ime Udoka, who is expected to lead the second stage of the team’s rebuilding process. Having VanVleet could also benefit Jalen Green, who averaged 22.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game last season, to take the next step in his development. The Rockets might not make the playoffs in the Western Conference, but they should improve from their 22-60 record from last season.

Victor Oladipo (knee) and Tari Eason (lower leg) are out for the Rockets.