The Orlando Magic’s rookie class
Speaking of rookies, the Magic were fortunate to draft three promising players in the 2023 NBA Draft. With two picks in the top 15 selections, the Magic selected Anthony Black from the University of Arkansas with the 6th pick and Jett Howard from Michigan with the 11th selection.
The Magic also grabbed UCONN’s Andre Jackson Jr. in the 2nd round and he could very well be considered a steal for the Magic if he can earn a spot in the rotation. The knock on Jackson Jr. is that he isn’t a good shooter which is the main reason he fell to the 2nd round. He could develop into a much-needed defensive presence and could eventually take over the role Issac had before his injury in a couple of years.
During his Summer League debut, Black shined as he scored 17 points on 70 percent from the field and he also had five assists, five rebounds, and three steals. He is a 6-foot-7 guard with great balance and a quick first step. He will have a definite advantage if smaller guards are assigned to guard him and he should be able to use his post-game.
Black plays with a nice pace and appears to be more of a playmaking, pass-first type of guard. It will be interesting to see how well he’ll be able to mesh with Banchero and Wagner and if he’ll be able to make plays off the ball. Also, expect Black to push the veterans for minutes as he is just too talented to not be on the floor.
The Magic got plenty of value with Howard as he has the ability to make tough step-back three-pointers and is creative with his handle. It could be beneficial if he develops a quicker first step and he could improve at finding his teammates and putting them in positions to score. He is a dynamic shooter with great size and the Magic can deploy him on the wing or he could occupy one of the guard spots.
Howard is a quality talent but still has room for improvement.