Final Grade
Khem Birch did not have a breakout first year in the NBA, but he had a really good one. He was a G-League All-Star with the Lakeland Magic and a glimmer of hope for a struggling Orlando Magic team.
He needs to fine-tune his post-up game, as well as become a more consistent shooter.
Birch has the tools to be a solid contributor to a NBA team. He has the experience after a humbling four years as a professional basketball player.
What is left for him is to break out and put it all together. If he is provided the opportunity, Birch will no doubt break out and become an impact role player in the NBA.
His first year in the NBA was one of fits and starts. He bided his time and performed well in the G-League. Then he got his chance in the NBA. And once he shined there, the G-League knew he was done with them.
From there, it was a matter of finding him time on the court. That was something the Magic constantly struggled to do. It was unfair to Birch. Every time he stepped on the court, he seemed to play extremely well.
The question moving forward remains the same. How do the Magic get Birch playing time with a roster loaded with big men? And what is the best role for him once they do find that playing time for him.
Next: 2017-18 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Marreese Speights
These are good problems to have. But Birch clearly deserved more as his season played out.