2017 Orlando Magic Player Outlook: Jodie Meeks

The Hot Hand

The true power of what the Magic have done is adding depth to their roster. They have three quality shooters that they can bring off their bench in Mario Hezonja, Jodie Meeks and C.J. Wilcox. The Magic should be able to space the floor plenty with their bench. And who gets minutes between Meeks and Wilcox may well depend on who has the hottest hand at the time.

With Wilcox having a very uncertain presence on the team — he simply has not played enough — Meeks is the veteran. That may mean he gets the benefit of the doubt more and the trust to take care of his business and produce.

Ultimately production is what matters. And Meeks will at some point this season play a factor in that.

He has shown plenty capable. When he is healthy, he is an effective 3-point shooter and a reliable player.

The way shooters, especially ones off the bench go, they wax and wane. One player will come to forefront and make shots when another fades and struggles some. Everyone needs to stay warm and ready when their number is called.

That is going to be the role Meeks plays this year. He will have a stretch where he is shooting the ball extremely effectively and it is clear he needs to play. There may be other stretches where Wilcox fills that role better.

Meeks will be steadier based on his experience. But he has to be healthy first.

The Magic will rely on Meeks at some point this season. He is the kind of player who can help the team win.