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2018 Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Moritz Wagner—great shooting, limited upside

By Drew Miller

SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 2: Moritz Wagner #13 of the Michigan Wolverines dunks against the Villanova Wildcats during the 2018 NCAA Men's Final Four Championship game at the Alamodome on April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Brett Wilhelm/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 2: Moritz Wagner #13 of the Michigan Wolverines dunks against the Villanova Wildcats during the 2018 NCAA Men's Final Four Championship game at the Alamodome on April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Brett Wilhelm/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) /
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Moritz Wagner, Michigan Wolverines
SAN ANTONIO, TX – APRIL 02: Moritz Wagner #13 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts in the first half against the Villanova Wildcats during the 2018 NCAA Men’s Final Four National Championship game at the Alamodome on April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Chris Covatta/Getty Images) /

Final Word

Moritz Wagner was a great college player and clearly has NBA potential. He moves with a grace that is rare in big men and his excellent shot separate him from the rest.

Wagner has proven to be a threat at every spot on the court on offense, as he has exhibited success around the rim, in mid-range and from deep.

While his shooting is there, his overall game still depends too much on it. He tends to disappear when his shot is not falling and his dribble moves and pump fakes become far less effective.

Still, he has proven to be a capable rebounder and should continue to be a solid on-ball defender in the NBA, while struggling to defend the rim.

Wagner considered heading for the draft last year. But due to a poor combine and concerns about his body and NBA readiness he stayed at Michigan for another year. This decision paid dividends, as he had a great year with the Wolverines and has expanded his offensive game.

Next: 2018 NBA Draft Preview: Who is Mohamed Bamba?

There is clearly a place for him on an NBA team and he has the tools to be successful today. While he does have his limitations, he is great at his game and is an attractive pick in the early second round.