2018-19 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Wesley Iwundu gets confidence as 3-and-D player

4 of 5

Wesley Iwundu, Steve Clifford, Orlando Magic

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 12: Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic and head coach Steve Clifford react during the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center on February 12, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

2020 Outlook

Wesley Iwundu is not likely to get included in the Orlando Magic’s promising young core. He is still something of an afterthought when it comes to the Magic’s future.

That is fine. No one is expecting Iwundu to step into the starting lineup outside of a spot start when needed. He can fill that role fine.

But his best role is still coming off the bench. The Magic should feel good about using him as a utility player off the bench, able to change the game or keep the energy level up with his defensive intensity.

The question for how much Iwundu can contribute is going to depend on how much his 3-point shooting continues to develop.

Related Story. 2017-18 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Wesley Iwundu. light

He undoubtedly took a big step forward this season. Defenses were still willing to leave him alone and let him shoot from the outside. They probably still will be when the teams reconvene in the fall.

But Iwundu was more comfortable and confident shooting. That has to continue to develop for him. There is no reason to think that work will not continue. It was easy to see his confidence growing as the season continued. The team has to hope that continues to grow in the offseason.

The Magic have to envision he will continue in his bench role. The Magic likely are not going to ask him to step in and take more of the scoring burden if they lose Terrence Ross. That kind of scoring ability and spurtability is not quite in his arsenal right now.

For now, Orlando wants to see him turn into a 3-and-D player. They know he can defend at a high level already off the bench. What they need is for him to become a more reliable 3-point shooter.

With his slashing ability and athleticism around the rim, Iwundu can be a solid role player for the team.