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2017 NBA Draft: 2nd Round Gambles for the Orlando Magic

By Vincent Mcmillan

Mar 11, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Sindarius Thornwell (0) dribbles the ball up the court in the first half against the Georgia Bulldogs during the SEC tournament at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 11, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Sindarius Thornwell (0) dribbles the ball up the court in the first half against the Georgia Bulldogs during the SEC tournament at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sindarius Thornwell, South Carolina Gamecocks, Florida Gators
Jan 18, 2017; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks guard Sindarius Thornwell (0) works towards the basket against Florida Gators forward Devin Robinson (1) and guard KeVaughn Allen (5) during the second half at Colonial Life Arena. South Carolina wins 57-53. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

Sindarius Thornwell, South Carolina

Sindarius Thornwell is an instinctive scorer. Without possessing elite athleticism, Thornwell finds a way to put the ball in the basket.

His offensive game is reminiscent of Paul Pierce. He has a big body and is able to use it to shield the ball from defenders while going to the rim. He also has a knack for getting to the free throw line. When left open on the perimeter, he has the confidence and poise to hit the open jumper.

On the defensive end, Thornwell had the length and strength to be a solid defender. Where he has a question mark is his intensity. While playing off the ball, Thornwell can get caught watching at times and lose track of his man.

The Magic need a consistent scoring threat to close out games. Thornwell can either get a basket or get to the free-throw line in crunch time. He would be a great addition to the bench and provide consistent scoring while the starters get a breather.

With him leaving the South Carolina Gamecocks as a senior, the room for growth might be less than other freshman prospects entering the draft. But that may also mean he is more prepared to contribute immediately.

Thornwell is a versatile player, able to play any position along the perimeter. Having to shoulder most of the offensive load at South Carolina may be an asset to Thornwell’s overall game. His ball handling and playmaking skills have improved but still needs some polishing if he is to be an NBA starter.