He would live to see his character and idealism recognized, and his time in office re-assessed. Jimmy Carter had magic at the beginning. And he found it again.
Carter returned to the Magic starting lineup due to numerous injuries on the roster and put forth a balanced effort Sunday while finishing as one of five players with a double-digit point total.
Carter produced 15 points (7-15 FG ... and he should remain in that role going forward due to the Magic's lack of depth in the frontcourt, or at least until Paolo Banchero (oblique) is ready ...
Few people would remember now, but the Jimmy Carter who sprang from obscurity to the White House had magic. His piercing blue eyes. His big-toothed smile that became a trademark on campaign posters.