Orlando Magic players to watch at Orlando Pro Summer League

By Ryan Doyle | Jun 29, 2017

Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Jonathan Isaac (Florida State) is introduced by NBA commissioner Adam Silver as the number six overall pick to the Orlando Magic in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

4 of 7

Mar 10, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; Orlando Magic center Stephen Zimmerman (33) dunks the ball against the Charlotte Hornets in the second half at Spectrum Center. The Hornets defeated the Magic 121-81. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

Stephen Zimmerman, Center

The 2016 second-round pick could take major strides this offseason. He saw some time in the NBA last season. But for the most part, he looked overmatched.

Even with a strong Summer League, Stephen Zimmerman is still a likely G-League candidate due to the Magic being crowded at center. Even so, Zimmerman needs to show he can be a viable option if Nikola Vucevic or Bismack Biyombo fall to injury.

With the Erie Bayhawks, Zimmerman averaged a solid 13.4 points per game along with just fewer than nine rebounds per game. His development is still ongoing. But a strong stretch this week could also get the fan base on his side. It certainly would help get him a clearer spot in the Magic’s future.

The key to look for in Zimmerman is his defense. He will be playing some talented big men and he needs to hold his own physically. If he gets bullied, there is still much work to do on that end.

For Zimmerman, showing steady improvement is the key. The Magic are going to give him the time to develop, he needs to cash in on the opportunity.