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2018-19 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Wesley Iwundu

By Philip Rossman-Reich

ORLANDO, FL - NOVEMBER 14: Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on November 14, 2018 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - NOVEMBER 14: Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on November 14, 2018 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Wesley Iwundu, Orlando Magic, D.J. Augustin
DETROIT, MI – JANUARY 16: Wesley Iwundu #25 of the Orlando Magic goes on fast break against the Detroit Pistons on January 16, 2019 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Final Grade

WESLEY IWUNDU. B. . G/F. Orlando Magic

No one quite knew what to expect from Wesley Iwundu. He had a fine rookie year that showed some of what made him a NBA player. But it felt like his minutes were those that go to a player on a team that is far out of the playoff race.

There was enough to keep him around for a little while.

Coach Steve Clifford started some early buzz saying he was really impressed with Iwundu, even while he was not getting minutes to start the season. It was undeniable that he needed to be in.

When he got in, he paid that confidence off tenfold.

He provided the defense the Magic needed off the bench. He was able to keep up the energy and intensity the starters left for the bench to bring. No matter the poor lineups he was sometimes paired with, he was able to maintain his level of intensity.

Wesley Iwundu was actually the first guy off the bench, spelling Aaron Gordon so he could play with the second unit in the second quarter. That is the level of trust Iwundu had.

His 3-point shooting also dramatically improved. That was the most welcome sign and ultimately what made him a more reliable player for the team. Someone they could play for long stretches of time.

His 3-point shooting is still the key to what he can do as a player.

Throughout the season, Iwundu was really good at playing within himself. He did not take shots that he was not comfortable with and then made the right play attacking off the dribble or keeping the ball moving.

This included passing up some open 3-pointers on occasion when his confidence or timing was not particularly right. That is good recognition from a young player, but also missed opportunities.

As Iwundu continues to grow and develop, this will change. He will feel more comfortable taking and making those shots.

Next. 2019 Orlando Magic Player Evaluations: Jonathon Simmons. dark

This season was an important step forward for him. He proved he belonged and could carve out a role in the league. If he repeats this season and grows from it, Iwundu should have a long NBA career.