NBA Mock Draft 8.0: Raptors take a high-risk prospect; Lakers get a steal in round 1

NBA Draft prospect Anthony Black (Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Draft prospect Anthony Black (Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports)
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft prospect Ausar Thompson (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)

7. Orlando Magic – Ausar Thompson, G, Overtime Elite

For as good as the Orlando Magic’s young core has developed over the past two seasons, there are still questions that surround this team at the point guard position. With respect to them, I don’t believe that the team has found their long-term point guard in Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, or Cole Anthony. They’re good, quality players for the Magic but this is still a team that is looking for a primary playmaker at the position.

And perhaps Ausar Thompson could be that player for the team. Thompson falling to No. 7 would be a huge surprise but with how the board has fallen, perhaps it’s not that unlikely of a possibility. And if it were to happen, the Magic should consider themselves quite lucky. They’d be getting a high-ceiling prospect with great promise.

Thompson has great size for a guard, just like his brother Amen, and is an athletic phenom. If he can develop his jump shot on a consistent basis, there’s no question that he has the potential to be a possible final foundational piece for the Magic.

Thompson could end up being taken in the top 5; he’s that talented of a prospect.