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Prospects the Orlando Magic should consider for the NBA Draft

By Kenneth Oliver

Mar 17, 2016; Denver , CO, USA; Fresno State Bulldogs guard Paul Watson (3) strips the ball from Utah Utes forward Jakob Poeltl (42) in the second half of Utah vs Fresno State in the first round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2016; Denver , CO, USA; Fresno State Bulldogs guard Paul Watson (3) strips the ball from Utah Utes forward Jakob Poeltl (42) in the second half of Utah vs Fresno State in the first round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jakob Poeltl, Utah Utes, Fresno State, Bulldogs
Mar 17, 2016; Denver , CO, USA; Utah Utes forward Jakob Poeltl (42) drives against Fresno State Bulldogs forward Karachi Edo (4) in the first half of Utah vs Fresno State in the first round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Jakob Poeltl, C Utah Utes

17.3 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.5 bpg

Jakob Poeltl is the man of consistency. On a team like the Orlando Magic, he could play a role similar to that of current Magic center Jason Smith.

It seems like any team will know exactly what they will get from a player Poeltl.

Poeltl comes billed as a solid low-post presence. He is a serviceable defensive force blocking shots and grabbing defensive rebounds. He is capable of being effective option in the open floor running the fastbreak.

Jakob Poeltl is an interesting candidate. Projected to land between picks 5 and 10, Poeltl should be the first true center drafted based on his skill set.

During his sophomore season at Utah, he recorded 17.3 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.

Strengths

  • Runs the floor very well for a seven-footer, explosive off one foot. Can finish above the rim with authority.
  • Solid shot blocker, could anchor a Magic defensive unit.
  • Skilled pick-and-roll defender capable of switching to the smaller guard.
  • Established offensive repertoire consisting of hook shots, cuts to the rim, and post ups should allow for easy scoring in isolation near the rim.

Weaknesses

  • Poor jump shooter. Will not be able to spread the floor in a half-court setting.
  • Not very athletic. Will struggle against above the rim centers on offense.
  • Poor free throw shooter. Only shot 69 percent last season.

Poeltl is definitely worthy of a top-10 pick, but if he slides down to the Magic at 11, they should pounce at the chance to grab him.

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