6. Orlando Magic – Ausar Thompson G/F, Overtime Elite
The Orlando Magic has assembled a talented young core. With Paolo Banchero winning NBA Rookie of the Year, they appear to be on the right path. However, there’s still plenty of work this front office needs to do this offseason. And with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Magic will be in a great position to take another step forward.
Ausar Thompson is a player that has continued to rise up draft boards and the overwhelming sense is that he will be a top 6 pick in the draft, perhaps even higher when it officially arrives. There have even been some whispers that he could overtake his brother, Amen, on some draft boards. Though, I’m not sure how much I’m buying into that narrative just yet.
Nevertheless, the interest around Ausar as a prospect should be interesting to follow over the next few weeks. One team that could take a flier on him is the Magic at No. 6. They have a need at the point guard position and that’s certainly something that he could grow into at the next level. At this point, I’m not sure how ready he is to play the point guard position on a consistent basis, considering he’s used to playing alongside his brother.
But you kind of take that risk when it comes to his natural ability and high long-term ceiling.