Finding a diamond
With the season winding down, now is the time to take a chance at finding their next diamond in the rough.
No, the Magic are not likely to find a superstar in the D-League but that is not what they should be looking for. The Magic should be looking to find the NBA role player on a bargain contract. With the season all but over, it makes no sense for this team to have C.J. Watson or Jodie Meeks act as potential progress stoppers since they do not line up with Orlando’s long-term window.
Now is the time to take a shot at the D-League and see if any players in the D-League or within their own program can cut it in the NBA.
The Magic called up Anthony Brown in January when they needed some backcourt help. Unfortunately, Brown is out for the rest of the year with an injury.
Orlando could certainly also look into 6-foot-3 sharpshooter Gabe York from Erie. York is averaging 16.1 points per game and shooting 37.5 percent from beyond the arc.
For the Magic to take the next step in their development — and, if they want, pick up some wins down the stretch — they should look into mining for these “diamonds in the rough” to finish the season, perhaps even being willing to commit a multi-year contract to do so.
Next: Orlando Magic's bench biggest hindrance to winning
There is still opportunity to develop players in the short time remaining this season. Orlando should take advantage of it.