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2018 Orlando Magic Player Outlook: Nikola Vucevic

By Ryan Doyle

MEMPHIS, TN - DECEMBER 1: Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 1, 2016 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - DECEMBER 1: Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 1, 2016 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Nikola Vucevic, Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 22: Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic looks to pass against Spencer Hawes #00 of the Charlotte Hornets during the game at Amway Center on January 22, 2016 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /

Overall Outlook

Much of Nikola Vucevic’s struggles last season were due to the odd roster construction. He was in the middle of the well-documented logjam at center for Orlando. He was put in a poor position and he didn’t have did not skill set to overcome it.

If his 2017 numbers were a fluke, he should have no problem being a main contributor. He has the tools to be one of the best offensive centers in the league. His strong post game, capable passing and ability to stretch the floor make him a rare breed in today’s NBA landscape.

It is safe to assume Vucevic will be able to perform like he did through 2015 and 2016 again. After a summer trying to find his shooting stroke again, he could be a borderline All-Star candidate yet again. The Magic will certainly rely on him for some offensive consistency.

Defensively, Vucevic will be put to the test again. Last season was surely a step in the right direction. But there may not be much more room to grow. Which is not a major problem, considering everything else he brings to the table.

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Where Vucevic has been most consistent has been on the glass. Orlando’s problems on the boards are well documented. He has been the only player that has made is presence felt in that department. Even defensive stalwart Bismack Biyombo struggled in that department last season.

Now, up to this point having Vucevic as the main contributor has not led to many wins. That may not change this season, but that does not mean Vucevic is the problem. He is a productive, efficient player, one who could make a difference on a contending team. Making Vucevic’s future cloudy.

There will be a glut of reports coming throughout the season regarding where Vucevic might be at season’s end.

It is anyone’s guess as to where Vucevic ends up. The debate’ will continue to heat up and he will be a storyline to watch all season long.