NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Detroit Pistons create young super team; big-name is traded

5. Orlando Magic – Amen Thompson, G, G League Ignite

There’s no question that the Orlando Magic have shown some flashes this season and it would go a long way in taking another possible step this offseason if they managed to hit on another projected top 5 pick. It’s becoming clearer and clearer that the Magic should probably try to invest in a long-term answer at the point guard position. And if Amen Thompson is there at No. 5, they should run to turn in their draft card.

Amen is a player that certainly may need a year or two of developing into he turns into a true difference-maker at the NBA level (maybe I’m wrong, but that’s just my gut) but the fact that he has the athleticism and build to be a versatile player in the backcourt is the reason why many are so high on him (and his brother).

If Thompson can simply prove that he has the potential to be a consistent shooter in the NBA, he will have the chance to be selected in the top 5. If the does drop, it will likely be due to the questions that many scouts have about his long-term offensive potential.