Orlando Magic Fire Stan Van Gundy, Mutually Part Ways With GM Otis Smith

Well, this doesn’t come as too much of a surprise. After a rocky season down in Orlando, (now former) Magic coach Stan Van Gundy has officially been relieved of his duties, while GM Otis Smith and the team have agreed to “mutually part ways.” More via NBA.com:”Orlando Magic Chief Executive Officer Alex Martins announced today that Stan Van Gundy has been relieved of his duties as head coach. In addition President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Otis Smith and the organization have mutually agreed to part ways. ‘On behalf of the DeVos Family, we sincerely appreciate and thank Otis and Stan for all that they have done on and off the floor for the Orlando Magic,’ said Martins. ‘These are the days you dread in this business, but we feel it’s time for new leadership and new voices.’ ‘They both brought die-hard dedication and an unmatched work ethic on a daily basis,’ added Martins. ‘Their success is well documented, as the Orlando Magic has had the fourth best record in the NBA over the last five years, and entering the playoffs this year the third most playoff wins over that period of time. The disappointment of getting eliminated in the first round of the playoffs these past two seasons played a primary role in our decision, as we feel our momentum towards winning a championship has paused. We wish Otis and Stan all the best and we look forward to taking the next step towards winning that championship.’ Van Gundy was named head coach on June 7, 2007, becoming the ninth head coach in franchise history.”