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2017-18 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Wesley Iwundu

By Ryan Doyle

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 20: David Nwaba #11 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot past Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic at the United Center on December 20, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Magic 112-94. 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 Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 20: David Nwaba #11 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot past Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic at the United Center on December 20, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Magic 112-94. 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 Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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Wesley Iwundu, Orlando Magic, Dallas Mavericks
ORLANDO, FL – APRIL 4: Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 4, 2018 at Amway Center 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Final Grade

C+. . F. Orlando Magic. WESLEY IWUNDU

All things considered, Wesley Iwundu put together a solid rookie season. With little expectations and fan fare, he was able to carve out a role in his first season with the Magic.

Iwundu took advantage of the opportunity in front of him and likely earned himself another roster spot in 2018. If he can take big strides with his outside shot in the offseason, he projects to be a prototypical three-and-D player.

His run in Summer League will be very important to show that kind of growth and development.

Defensively, Iwundu needs to stay the course. He will learn the craft with more time, but he is athletic enough to stick to his man. And he uses his hands well enough to cause turnovers. If he can continue to build on his strength at that end of the floor, he will have a place on an NBA roster.

It is the offensive side of the ball that will determine how high his ceiling can be. Iwundu will never be a scorer. He does not have the jumper or the ability to create off the dribble. But his game will transform once teams respect his 3-point shot more.

If Iwundu can make opponents take notice of him outside, he can then use his athleticism and length to get to the basket.

But it will take time for the jump shot to develop. He will have to continue to play within himself and slowly progress.

Next: 2017-18 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Jonathan Isaac

As he enters year two, Iwundu should find himself as a potential piece to the new plan Orlando’s front office will continue to push this offseason.