2017-18 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Shelvin Mack
Final Grade
The expectations for Shelvin Mack were pretty low entering the season. No one was really sure what the Magic were getting. They were getting someone solid, but whose ceiling seemed pretty low.
Mack was never going to be more than a bakcup. And any production they could get would seemingly be a bonus.
But Orlando ended up getting a lot from Mack. His versatility and ability to hold his own at shooting guard proved valuable. Especially as the injuries mounted.
It took some time for him to get use to playing shooting guard — where he spent a little more than one-third of his minutes according to Basketball-Reference. But eventually he owned the position. Playing well within himself.
More than anything, playing Shelvin Mack alongside D.J. Augustin, helped Augustin play off the ball more. That was an area where Augustin always found a little bit more success as it allowed him to spot up and play off the ball. that might honestly be where Augustin is more successful. Mack helped give him the space to do that.
Mack is enhancement talent in that way. He makes others look good through his own solid play. Everything Mack does is rarely for himself. He is on the floor to help others get the most of themselves. And that is exactly what happened with Mack, especially late in the season.
That does not mean the Magic bring Mack back. Far from it. Orlando could very well put him in a trade and cash in on his value on the market.
Next: 2017-18 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Aaron Gordon
Whatever the case may be, Mack turned in a surprising and solid season for the Magic. Doing what the team needed and holding the boat steady on a season that was extremely rocky.