2017 Orlando Magic Player Outlook: Elfrid Payton

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Orlando Magic, Elfrid Payton, Detroit Pistons

Oct 17, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) drives to the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the first half at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Elfrid Payton is arguably the most intriguing player on the Orlando Magic, and he is about to begin the biggest season of his career.

Payton, the 10th overall pick in 2014, entered last season with a ton of promise. He racked up a solid rookie season on both sides of the ball, averaging 8.9 points, 6.5 assists, 1.7 steals and even 4.3 rebounds per game.

His total effect on the team was even stronger than his conventional stats would suggest, as he was the 14th-ranked point guard according to ESPN’s Real Plus Minus, which measures a player’s overall effect on the team.

Five Thirty Eight even projected Payton to be a future star in their CARMELO ratings.

Last season, he started off the season very strong.

He helped the offense thrive and was a solid defender at the perimeter, leading the Magic to a 19-13 start.

After his December injury, he never quite recovered. And the Magic suffered significantly without him at full strength.

Although his scoring stats improved a bit last year (10.7 points, 6.4 assists, 3.6 rebounds, 1.2 steals per game), he stagnated on the defensive end.

Now, many are left wondering whether he really is the point guard of the future for the Magic.

Next: What to Look For