Van Gundy: Adonal's a Percect Fit

By Chris Navalta

First-year Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy knew he had a good young team when he took over as coach. But when the Magic signed Adonal Foyle, Van Gundy got more than just a veteran presence.

Though the numbers don't translate in the box score, Van Gundy says adding Foyle was just what the team needed, giving Orlando a nice mix of veteran leadership to go with their youth and athleticism.

"As a player, Adonal is a very defensive-oriented guy, which we need," Van Gundy said. "He's got great toughness, he's got a tremendous work ethic. He is probably the most mature guy on our team because he brings great professionalism everyday. He's the perfect guy for us to have on our team. A great pickup."

Foyle, who is the Golden State Warriors' all-time leading shot blocker, has brought his defense to Orlando and has helped the Magic become the eighth best defense in the league.

"No question," Van Gundy said. "We're constantly talking about defense and they can see it in him every single night."

Adonal has appeared in every game so far this season. And whenever rising star Dwight Howard needs a breather, or is in early foul trouble, Van Gundy has no problem turning to his veteran.

Howard might be the biggest beneficiary of Foyle's presence. During practice, Howard now has a tougher sparring partner, who will not make anything easy on him. And Howard's hard work as paid dividends in the form of a career season. Going into this season, Howard was averaging 15.1 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.9 blocks. This season, Howard's averaging 22.4 points, 15.2 rebounds and 2.6 blocks and has the Magic at the top of the Southeast Division.

"I think it helps a lot," Van Gundy said. "Dwight has to play against a guy like Adonal everyday in practice. And I think (Adonal) makes it difficult for (Dwight). He sees some of the best defense he's going to see all year - especially from a one-on-one standpoint - in practice. So that's got to help you in your development."

Van Gundy also says having Adonal on the floor - or on the bench - is like having another coach by his side. The two share conversations from time to time, constantly giving each other feedback on how the team is progressing.

"I just talked to him about 10 days ago, just to get his thoughts on our team," Van Gundy said. "Because I have such great respect for his maturity and his approach to the game. It's good to get the thoughts of an intelligent veteran player. Players always bring a different perspective. And I think that's good."