2019 Orlando Magic Player Outlook: D.J. Augustin

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D.J. Augustin, Orlando Magic, Minnesota Timberwolves

ORLANDO, FL – NOVEMBER 09: D.J. Augustin #14 of the Orlando Magic goes to the basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on November 9, 2016 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. (Photo by Manuela Davies/Getty Images) /

Overall Outlook

D.J. Augustin is going to be a source of constant criticism throughout the season. He is a good player, but not a great player. And not a player that probably should be a starting point guard. Everyone seems to recognize this. It will be difficult not to use Augustin as a proxy for the team’s overall likely frustration at the position.

But Augustin, for now, is the best option the team has. He proved last year just how effective he can be with his 3-point shooting and overall steady play. Augustin is the kind of player who will go in and do his job but may not necessarily stand out in any specific way.

For a team that desperately needs shooting, Augustin might be the best shooter on the team. That is going to make him valuable for this team. If he can keep the efficiency he had last year, Augustin can have another good year.

Whether that helps the team ultimately or not is another question. That question might come down to what Augustin can do to set others up and work as a playmaker and just how much defense he can provide. Perhaps with better defenders behind him, Augustin’s defensive struggles will not be as pronounced.

Still, Augustin provides a level of consistency that the Magic need right now. So much with this team is up in the air. No one is sure just how much Aaron Gordon has grown or what Jonathan Isaac can provide. The presence of veterans like D.J. Augustin, Nikola Vucevic and Evan Fournier is going to be critical to those young players’ development and for keeping the team stable on the court.

That is likely what went behind Orlando’s decision to keep Augustin as the starting point guard for now. The team did not want to disrupt the development and opportunities for those young players while keeping a good supporting player and a steady veteran in the mix.

Next. 2019 Orlando Magic Player Outlook: Aaron Gordon. dark

If Augustin can provide steady leadership, he will be well worth it. And do what he has done his entire career.