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2019 Orlando Magic Player Outlook: Khem Birch

By Philip Rossman-Reich

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 10: Khem Birch #24 and Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic box out Boban Marjanovic #51 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the first half of the NBA game between the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center on March 10, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Victor Decolongon/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 10: Khem Birch #24 and Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic box out Boban Marjanovic #51 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the first half of the NBA game between the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Clippers at Staples Center on March 10, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Victor Decolongon/Getty Images) /
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Khem Birch, Orlando Magic, Memphis Grizzlies
MEMPHIS, TN – OCTOBER 2: Khem Birch #24 of the Orlando Magic goes for a lay up against Ivan Rabb #10 of the Memphis Grizzlies during a preseason game on October 2, 2017 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Khem Birch came back to the U.S. to get his NBA shot. He took advantage of the opportunity the Orlando Magic gave him. But the fight begins again.

Khem Birch was a bit of a ghost last year.

The reports the Orlando Magic would sign Birch came relatively early in the summer, but he would not actually sign with the team for several weeks. And even at that press availability, he was a bit of a mystery.

That was even for what he did as a player. Birch was a key player for Euroleague semifinalist Olympiacos, adding some much-needed defense and rebounding to that team. He was considered one of the best prospects outside the NBA. But it was also clear he was looking for his chance to return to the United States and the NBA.

The question was just about the opportunity he could get with Orlando. That did not seem to matter. Birch just wanted to be on the radar.

A year where he spent a good chunk of time with the Lakeland Magic followed — 21 games where he averaged 14.0 points per game and 9.7 rebounds per game. His defensive ability proved he was far too good for the G-League. But the Orlando Magic could not seemingly promise him guaranteed playing time.

He waited as he has so often throughout his career.

Injuries are opportunities and Birch took advantage of his. When Nikola Vucevic went down with an injury, and Khem Birch slowly worked his way into the lineup. And from there it was hard to find a reason for him to let go.

The first game where he got serious minutes, Birch grabbed hold and did not let go. He scored 12 points to go with 10 rebounds. But it was the four blocks everyone will likely remember. He provided a defensive presence in that win over the Minnesota Timberwolves the Magic had been lacking.

And Birch kept delivering strong performances. Not to that extent, but every sign from him was extremely encouraging. It felt like every time he was on the floor he was making a positive impact.

The question was where to find him playing time and how to ensure that he gets his run. And then how best to use him.

Unfortunately for Birch, all those questions remain for him. The Magic did little to alleviate any questions at Birch’s position. And his fight is likely to begin all over again.