Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Dewayne Dedmon

Dewayne Dedmon started 15 games this season for the Orlando Magic and could become the starting power forward the team needs.

Dewayne Dedmon was an undrafted rookie from whom little was expected. There was no benchmark, no set expectation for what Dedmon could become or what he could do. He seemed like just the right player to take a chance on to Magic general manager Rob Hennigan.

Dewayne Dedmon’s season began humbly.

Exceeding the expectations that never existed was easy for the long, defensive-minded big man.  Dedmon even carved his way into the starting lineup while the Magic were lacking defensively, and save some issues with foul trouble, he thrived.

In all, Dedmon ended up playing his way past Channing Frye, a $8-million contract and billed starting power forward. He played past Kyle O’Quinn, the bruising second-round pick who showed a lot of positive signs then was benched. Dedmon proved to be worth more than the No. 4 overall pick Aaron Gordon, and while Gordon debatably could have a higher future, it is Dedmon at this point who is the more sure thing.

It is Dedmon who has the calling card to carve out a decade-plus long career in the Association. His commitment to improving his game has been notable, and he has shown signs that he could be a starting caliber power forward.

We did not hesitate to draw parallels between what Dedmon has done and what the Magic got from a young Ben Wallace.

The similarities are very inspiring and very encouraging.

Next: The Good and the Bad