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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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Denzel Valentine, Michigan State Spartans, Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
Mar 18, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Denzel Valentine (45) motions while guarded by Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders forward Perrin Buford (2) during the first half of the first round in the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Denzel Valentine, G/F, Michigan State Spartans

19.2 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 7.8 apg, 1.0 spg

Denzel Valentine is another interesting prospect.

At 6-foot-5, Valentine could be a size nightmare to match up against if used properly. If he can develop a low-post game he could become the next Chauncey Billups at hte guard spot with his ability to move the ball and dish off the attack.

In a Magic uniform, Valentine would bring energy and shooting. His willingness to get others involved on offense would help him earn playing time right away.

Do not sleep on his defense just yet either. He is labeled a defensive weak link, but with the right coaching and training he could turn into a solid two-way player. He seems to have all the tools and the defensive-minded Tom Izzo still found a fit for him.

A four-year senior, he is one of few players who could contribute immediately for a playoff-aspiring Magic team. He instantly would back up Victor Oladipo, Evan Fournier or whomever the Magic bring in at small forward, which should give him a little time to learn behind an already solid starter.

Strengths 

  • Valentine is a capable wing tweener at 6-foot-5 who is capable of being a facilitator or spot-up shooter.
  • Shot better than 44 percent from downtown for the Spartans last season and should translate over to the NBA.
  • A very willing rebounder, capable of being a top rebounding NBA guard.
  • Very smart player, seems to always make the right play because of excellent floor vision.

Weaknesses

  • He is a sub par on-ball defender. Constantly had to be hidden at Michigan State on the defensive end.
  • He does give effort, but he simply lacks the quickness to stay with speedy guards.
  • He lacks strength to guard NBA small forwards. Valentine will definitely have to put in work to develop his defensive game.
  • Terrible rim finisher. He will rely on jumpers and floaters way too often.

If Orlando Magic selected him, Valentine would not be asked to do much as he adds a solid offensive option to the Magic’s fast offensive game plan.

NBA Comparison: Greivis Vasquez

Next: Talented and versatile