2015 NBA Trade Deadline: Should Orlando Magic Flip Pick for Miles Plumlee?
What has been the weakest aspect of his play thus far?
What is frustrating is that Plumlee offers no court-stretching ability and is really only a threat in the paint. He hits just 35.7 percent over his career from 3-10 feet, and has absolutely no range beyond 10 to speak of.
Can that be fixed? Absolutely. Has it been? No, not by any means.
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He is still hitting just 29.3 percent from outside of the restricted area this year, and that indicates a lack of improvement. In fact, he has devolved. It is part of the reason Phoenix is selling his services at a low return.
The odd part is there really is not any reason to believe he could develop well in Orlando. His rebounding will keep him in the NBA, but teams want more than a rebounder from a starting power forward/center.
The fact that Kyle O’Quinn is already an offensive challenge (will not say liability at all, he is not one) to insert into units, further indicates the Magic do not need a second “niche talent” in the frontcourt.
There likely will not be another premier big man drafted (and there may be still), but there needs to be someone better than Dewayne Dedmon. Dedmon is not a center—he is too thin. Plumlee is a chiseled 6-foot-10, 245 pounds, and that cannot be replicated by the acquisitions of undrafted rookies like Dedmon. Plumlee offers an NCAA pedigree and talent level that commands a price.
Eventually the Magic are going to want to upgrade each niche performer. Ben Gordon is temporary, as is Luke Ridnour.
When teams reach contention, the roster is bolstered by veteran ring chasers, and should the Magic ever reach that plane in short but due time, the need for guys like Plumlee will still be there. It absolutely makes sense obtaining a known proficient talent than gamble one away on a rookie who may not adapt to the NBA well.
Next: Can Plumlee thrive long term