Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Nikola Vucevic
Final Grade
He also showed some of his weaknesses. His pick-and-roll defense was woefully exposed, especially with Channing Frye behind him. He could not recover in time to help Vucevic’s man when Vucevic stepped up to defend the pick and roll. And that further exposed Vucevic’s defensive issues.
This does not mean Vucevic cannot get better. He absolutely can get better. But he is probably not ever going to be an elite defender or rim protector. The Magic made their investment in him probably knowing full well this weakness. They probably did not make the investment thinking he would not be able to work well with Frye.
The two were unfortunately linked throughout the year.
So for every offensive step forward Vucevic made, there was a big defensive hole that needed to fill. Orlando will have to find a way to scheme around him somewhat or hope he makes the improvements necessary.
In any case, Vucevic had a solid season. He showed the Magic’s investment would be worth it and would give them a bargain. That is enough to categorize as some sort of success.
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C+
Nikola Vucevic continued his upward ascension in 2015, increasing his scoring output and getting on the All-Star radar. These were positive steps. He showed he deserved the extension he got and, in the future, will be a true bargain for his constant double-double output.
He also showed some of his weaknesses. His pick-and-roll defense was woefully exposed, especially with Channing Frye behind him. He could not recover in time to help Vucevic’s man when Vucevic stepped up to defend the pick and roll. And that further exposed Vucevic’s defensive issues.
This does not mean Vucevic cannot get better. He absolutely can get better. But he is probably not ever going to be an elite defender or rim protector. The Magic made their investment in him probably knowing full well this weakness. They probably did not make the investment thinking he would not be able to work well with Frye.
The two were unfortunately linked throughout the year.
So for every offensive step forward Vucevic made, there was a big defensive hole that needed to fill. Orlando will have to find a way to scheme around him somewhat or hope he makes the improvements necessary.
In any case, Vucevic had a solid season. He showed the Magic’s investment would be worth it and would give them a bargain. That is enough to categorize as some sort of success.