NBA Mock Draft: Dallas Mavericks take a huge gamble; A surprise riser emerges

Kobe Bufkin (Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports)
Kobe Bufkin (Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports)
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NBA Draft prospect Kobe Bufkin (David Banks-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Draft prospect Kobe Bufkin (David Banks-USA TODAY Sports)

11. Orlando Magic (via Chicago Bulls) – Kobe Bufkin, G, Michigan

With a clear need in the backcourt, it would not be at all surprising if the Orlando Magic double-dipped with guard prospects with each of their first two selections in the 2023 NBA Draft. One prospect that could be in play for Orlando at No. 11 is recent riser Kobe Bufkin.

Bufkin is coming off a very productive sophomore season in which he averaged 14 points and five rebounds on 48 percent shooting from the field. He made a huge jump from his freshman to sophomore season and that has and will continue to play a big role in the possibility of him going in the top 10 in this draft.

Heading into this pick, the Magic are in a great place. They could trade out of this spot if they wanted to in an attempt to acquire a more veteran player or they could take a flier on a high-ceiling player as well. After adding one of the Thompson twins with their first selection in this NBA Mock Draft, I don’t believe adding a prospect as talented as Bufkin can backfire on the team in any way.