Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: C.J. Watson

By Zach Palmer | Apr 26, 2016

Mar 26, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard C.J. Watson (32) shoots a technical foul shot after Chicago Bulls guard Aaron Brooks (not pictured) was ejected during the second half of a basketball game at Amway Center. The Magic won 111-89. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

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C.J. Watson, Orlando Magic, Andre Iguodala, Marreese Speights, Golden State Warriors

Feb 25, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard C.J. Watson (32) shoots as Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala (9) and center Marreese Speights (5) look on during the second half of a basketball game at Amway Center. The Warriors won 130-114. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

2017 Outlook

With his disappointing campaign in 2016, Watson did not do much to cement his status as a role player for Orlando next season.

Watson posted career lows in virtually every aspect. He was injured for a long stretch and never really found chemistry with the core of this team.

With an abundance of cap space, the Magic may look toward addressing the starting point guard spot which could relegate young Magic point guard Elfrid Payton to the bench and move C.J. Watson to third string. Another alternative for Orlando could be searching for a point guard who is more athletic and able to push the tempo a lot more than Watson.

The Magic should not count Watson out because he still has it in him to be a successful NBA player. This was a year of injury and adjustment for Watson. Things just did not work out. But the Magic may not want to risk the chance that he is on the downside of his career.

In that light, Watson’s future role with the Magic is definitely up in the air.

Next: Final Grade