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

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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Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Bam Adebayo (Kentucky) is introduced as the number fourteen overall pick to the Miami Heat in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Miami Heat

The Miami Heat were stuck with one of the later picks of the lottery with the 14th pick. They surprised some by selecting Kentucky Wildcats center Bam Adebayo.

Adebayo can definitely be listed as an “upside” pick. While his body is most definitely NBA-ready, his overall game might not be.

The Heat had some space at the 4, and Adebayo will likely be stashed away for some garbage-time growing, living on a steady diet of putback dunks and showing off an ability to guard three positions.

In terms of the upcoming season, the pick does not really move the needle for the Heat. They are much more focused on riding the momentum of their terrific run in the second half of last season. They were never fully healthy, yet still amazed coaches and players alike with their turnaround.

With the NBA granting Chris Bosh‘s medical waiver, the Heat suddenly have a significant amount of cap room to use this offseason. That could make them players for someone like Blake Griffin or Paul Millsap if that is the direction the Heat want to go. They will have significant cap space to work with to improve this summer.

They have to be current favorites to replace the Bulls in the playoffs.

Have the Magic gained on them? NO