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How did the Orlando Magic’s rivals fare in the NBA Draft?

By Joe Buckley

Mar 22, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) defends against Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) during the second half at Amway Center. Charlotte Hornets defeated the Orlando Magic 109-102. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 22, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) defends against Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) during the second half at Amway Center. Charlotte Hornets defeated the Orlando Magic 109-102. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Lauri Markkanen, Minnesota Timberwolves
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Lauri Markkanen (Arizona) shows off the inside of his suit jacket as he is introduced as the number seven overall pick to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Bulls

It is fitting this list starts with one of the two biggest names moved on draft day: the Chicago Bulls, and the Minnesota Timberwolves. The two teams stole the spotlight from the incoming freshmen by sending all-star guard Jimmy Butler out West (or, mid-way, kind of) to reunite with former coach Tom Thibedeau.

In return, the Bulls received currently injured Zach LaVine, upcoming sophomore Kris Dunn, and the No. 7 pick, which turned into Finnish-born Lauri Markkanen. The consensus is they got fleeced in his deal as they looked to move on from their beleaguered superstar.

While the uber-athletic LaVine surprised many last season with his improved 3-pointer and growing handle, he will likely miss half the season while recovering from his ACL tear. Even at top strength, LaVine is no replacement for Butler. Dunn will be a terrific defender, but has yet to show promise in any other area, and who knows what they can prise from their rookie big man.

Dwyane Wade seems unsure if he will pick up his player option and Rajon Rondo could get bought out after he again clashed with his coaches. If one or even both leave, the Bulls’ current depth chart does not make for happy reading. At all.

How much the Magic gained on them might be a question, but the idea of Chicago taking a step back is not. They are almost definitely out of the playoffs next season, and someone has to fill that void.

Have the Magic gained on them? YES.