Matt Dollinger, Sports Illustrated
Elfrid Payton is the biggest reason for hope for the Magic as this season comes to a close. He is literally doing something that had never been done before in the franchise’s history. And that is a huge thing to be watching from a rookie.
The assumption is that he will continue to get better. As he has gotten more confident, his confidence is showing to great results — and the usual trials and errors of a rookie. Sunday was not his best game by any stretch, and he still messed around and was near a triple double.
Maybe hyperbole is starting to take over with this kid. But a lot of people are starting to really like what they see.
Next: Marc Stein, ESPN.com