Orlando Magic Daily Roundtable: Sixth is a Magic number
What is the Magic’s most important goal in the NBA Draft? Regardless of who they pick, what must that pick accomplish?
Doyle: I think the Orlando Magic need to find a star. I have been back and forth for weeks, but I think the Magic finally need to pull the trigger and take a risk on a star. The Magic need to make their own luck. They have not been able to land the top pick once during this putrid stretch, so if a potentially transformative prospect (Trae Young/Michael Porter) is available at six, they have to take him. Yes, there is a massive boom or bust factor, but it is time to take a chance.
Henderson: The most important goal in the NBA Draft is to select the best available player. The player who can flourish in the system. The Magic should try to trade up by getting rid of Nikola Vucevic and Aaron Gordon or find a potential trade this summer. Whoever the Magic select they need to develop into one of the best players in the league at his position. The Orlando Magic organization should be ashamed after seeing the Boston Celtics’ success.
Rossman-Reich: The Orlando Magic do not have to find their future All-Star (eventually they will). I think they will be back in the upper parts of the Lottery next year (but things will feel more optimistic). But Orlando absolutely has to find someone who can be a key piece for the team moving forward and a surefire starter. I think the Magic should find someone who can contribute something immediately too. But he has to be someone who can clearly develop into a key player for the team moving forward.
Scricca: It is a tough call because, on one hand, this franchise cannot afford to miss on another high lottery pick. On the other, this franchise clearly needs a foundational offensive piece. Fortunately, they have three picks. So the best approach might be to make an upside play early and look for high floors later.
Racine: The most important goal for the Magic in the Draft should be finding a player with superstar potential. That is Orlando’s ultimate need: a superstar. It tops the need for a point guard. If the Magic believe after the draft that they’ve got a potential superstar, it’s a job well done.
Palmer: They need to continue to add players who fit what they want to do. What is that? I really have no idea since they somehow still do not have a coach. But, draft guys who you envision playing a certain role in your scheme and commit to that scheme.
Flynn: The Magic need to find a star, which could be difficult drafting sixth. A more realistic goal should be drafting a player that can contribute, grow and play big-minutes immediately. Over the last six years, the Magic have been inconsistent with player development and keeping too short of a leash on young players (see Mario Hezonja, Elfried Payton, Victor Oladipo, etc.). Essentially the player they draft they need to develop and maximize their potential, something that has been an issue with the Magic.