Why the Orlando Magic should draft Jayson Tatum

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Nov 11, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Marques Bolden Duke Blue Devils forward Sean Obi, forward Harry Giles and forward Jayson Tatum (from left to right) watch the first half against the Marist Red Foxes at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /

Tatum and the Magic’s Draft Philosophy

Based on comments from the Magic’s new front office tandem of John Hammond and Jeff Weltman, the Magic will be seeking athleticism, length and versatility. Jayson Tatum is among the 2017 draft class’s best fits for that bill.

“Optionality” was a common refrain throughout Sam Hinkie’s tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers.

In that case, Hinkie was referring to accumulating as many assets as possible to have the widest range of options during a rebuild. In Tatum’s case, “optionality” means his ability to potentially fill multiple roles on the court.

That is what the Magic need as they try to return to contention: someone for whom it is easy to find a role regardless of what challenges and opportunities come their way in the near future.

In the past, Hammond has sought dynamic athletes and high-upside prospects like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Thon Maker. Based on comments he has made leading up this draft, he will likely be looking for more players of that ilk.

Jonathan Isaac is the obvious candidate when it comes to raw length and athleticism.

But Tatum can also fit within this philosophy.

More broadly, the Magic just need to take the best player available when they are on the clock. There is no reason to reach or try to fill a specific need at this stage of a rebuild this high in the draft.

Tatum also fits within that philosophy.

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He may not be as explosive or long as Antetokounmpo or Isaac, but he can defend and play multiple positions. He has the size to hold his own against most forwards and the speed to keep up with most guards. Depending on his surroundings, he could prove to be a matchup problem for opposing defenses.

He will not be able to guard bigger, Zach Randolph-type fours, but neither will Isaac. At least not anytime soon.

If he joined the Magic, he would play the 3 next to Aaron Gordon at the 4. It is safe to say there are few teams that have multiple forwards who can match that pair’s size and quickness.

The bottom line is that if the Magic just want the best guy left on the board, Tatum would be that guy, as he is widely projected to go higher than 6. If they want a guy who can matchup problems on both ends, he can be that guy too.

If the Magic want to keep Gordon as a foundational piece, that fit can work. If they don’t, Tatum would be a great small-ball 4.

If Tatum is there at six, Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball will be gone. Three of Jonathan Isaac, Dennis Smith Jr., Malik Monk, and Josh Jackson will also be gone.

Next: 2017 Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Who is Bam Adebayo?

The Magic need to draft Jayson Tatum at six because he will be the best fit for their philosophy, the best player available, the most versatile player and the surest shot at turning into a dependable offensive option left on the board.