Don't magic loop? (I can't stand ML, for that reason and that it's so fiddly). Pull it as tight as you can, try knitting into the back loops for the first couple of rows on the first stitch of the needle.

After I adjust the needles to work on the next side, I pull the working yarn tight so that last stitch is right against the needle. Then when I get back to that stitch, it's perfect.

I donated my dpns because I wasn't using them anymore.

To be fair, I also donated most if my straight needles too and knit everything on addi turbos.