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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, James Harden, Houston Rockets
Nov 4, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives to the basket during the first quarter as Orlando Magic center Dewayne Dedmon (3) defends at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Uncertainty and promise

Dedmon’s inconsistent playing time has been one of the bigger frustration of the Orlando Magic’s season. He started 15 games last season and seemed poised to take on a bigger role this season.

That did not quite come to fruition. Dedmon failed to take a significant step forward and find his place in the rotation. Even with his great rim protection, he never developed the trust to backup Nikola Vucevic at center. That role fell to Jason Smith, who perhaps had a better understanding of positioning and helpside rotations.

Dedmon very much showed his potential but also his youth and inexperience, falling out of favor of the coaching staff yet again.

This stretch of play to end the season has re-affirmed Dedmon’s place in many ways and what he can do. He has showcased what he can do when given some time to play. When he is active he is a difference maker.

What that translates to as he enters free agency is still anybody’s guess.

Does it mean the Magic will re-sign him or match an offer sheet in free agency?

It is clear Dedmon plays with hear and passion. He has some definable NBA skills. But remains a bit of a mystery.

Next: Orlando Magic Daily Podcast: The future and a win streak!

Philip Rossman-Reich contributed to this report.