The Orlando Magic finished with the fifth worst record in the NBA, putting them in prime position to bring in another young, talented player. However, drafting the wrong player could add another unwanted year to Orlando's rebuilding process. Here are players they need to avoid in the draft:
D’Angelo Russell – 6’5″, 180 lbs, PG – Fr., Ohio State
Stats: 19.3 ppg, 5.0 apg, 5.7 rpg
Russell burst on the scene for the Buckeyes and was their best player from day one this season, and has consistently dominated everyone they’ve played. He has limited athleticism, but scouts love his skills, leadership, and assertiveness. However, the Magic have used first round picks on guards in the past two years (Victor Oladipo, Elfrid Payton), and they shouldn't continue that streak.
Kristaps Porzingis – 7’0″, 220 lbs, PF - Sevilla
Stats: 6.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg
Porzingis would’ve been a first round pick in the draft if he would’ve come out last year, but decided to wait another year to improve his game. The seven-footer has emerged as one of the more offensively polished big men in this draft, but teams want to see him be more physical. Porzingis is a project that needs time to adjust to the NBA and add weight and muscle to his frame, and Orlando would like a prospect that's able to step in and contribute right away.
Stanley Johnson – 6’7″, 245 lbs, SF – Fr., Arizona
Stats: 14.1 ppg, 6.6 rpg
Johnson was the second most hyped player in this freshman class, he lived up to that hype in his lone college season. He has the ability to be a lockdown defender in the NBA right away, but his offensive game is still extremely limited. With Payton and Oladipo already serving as premier perimeter defenders, Orlando needs to find offense with their first round pick.
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