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The Curious Case of Dewayne Dedmon

By Sam Skubala

Oct 30, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic center Dewayne Dedmon (3) blocks Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kyle Singler (5) shot during the second half at Amway Center. Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Orlando Magic 139-136 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic center Dewayne Dedmon (3) blocks Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kyle Singler (5) shot during the second half at Amway Center. Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Orlando Magic 139-136 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dewayne Dedmon, Orlando Magic, Drew Gooden, Washington Wizards
Feb 9, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Orlando Magic center Dewayne Dedmon (3) looks to shoot as Washington Wizards forward Drew Gooden (90) defends during the third quarter at Verizon Center. Washington Wizards defeated Orlando Magic 96-80. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

Still Developing

It is also crucial to remember Dedmon is only in his third season in the league, and is still developing as a player.

He has shown flashes of being a good two-way rebounder in the past, and despite the drop in offensive rebounding percentage this season, there is no evidence to suggest that these struggles should continue long-term — at least, not yet.

Furthermore, he continues to improve as a defender, and has upside on that end of the floor. Aside from his excellent defensive box plus-minus numbers, he has also continued to improve as a rim protector, averaging 2.2 blocks per 36 minutes, and limiting opponents to shooting just 45.7 percent at the rim.

To really earn minutes for his defensive work however, he must improve his IQ on that end of the floor. Dedmon is averaging nearly six fouls per 36 for the second straight season, and these silly mistakes have often limited his playing time. His defensive decision making needs to improve for him to see more action.

However, to establish a place in the rotation, he must deal with his problems on the offensive end of the floor.

Next: Where to go?