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Orlando Mock Draft Roundup: Nearing the end

By Philip Rossman-Reich

Dec 3, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) pulls in a rebound against Maine Black Bears guard Ilker Er (21) in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) pulls in a rebound against Maine Black Bears guard Ilker Er (21) in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sean Deveney, Sporting News

6th Pick: Dennis Smith, G/NC State

Dennis Smith has quickly established himself as the top target for many Magic fans and mock drafts. The thought being the team is ready to move on from starter Elfrid Payton.

Smith is deserving in his own right. He was a strong scorer and distributor for a frustrating NC State Wolfpack team. Smith would provide the Magic with the scoring and driving instincts the team needs to get its offense going.

At the very least, Smith would be seen as a more modern upgrade over Payton. If his shot continues to improve, he could also see some time at shooting guard.

25th Pick: Kyle Kuzma, PF/Utah

Not too many mock drafts still have Kyle Kuzma going in the first round. But the junior for the Utah Utes remains an intriguing, versatile option at this spot.

Kuzma impressed a lot at the Combine, adding to his 16.4 points and 9.3 rebounds per game performance last year. Kuzma can attack the glass well, but he still has a lot to prove.

"Kuzma bolstered his stock quite a bit in Chicago, showing some offensive versatility that has teams thinking first round. If he can shoot well enough to show that he can be a stretch 4, his first-round spot will be there."

Kuzma has to prove he can shoot the three better — 32.1 percent from beyond the arc last year — to make it in the NBA. At this point, he is likely a better option for the second round than the first.