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Orlando Magic’s depth chart can help team map out future

By Philip Rossman-Reich

The Orlando Magic value versatility and length and that can be seen on their depth chart. (Photo by Harry Aaron/Getty Images)
The Orlando Magic value versatility and length and that can be seen on their depth chart. (Photo by Harry Aaron/Getty Images) /
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Nikola Vucevic, Orlando Magic
Despite his flaws, Nikola Vucevic has continued to be a consistent producer at the Orlando Magic’s most solid position. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

Center

Nikola Vucevic – Mohamed Bamba – Khem Birch

No position on the Orlando Magic is likely quite as settled as the center position at the moment.

The Magic should feel fairly comfortable with all three options they currently have. And at least for the time being, they should feel good about the development plan they have in place for one of their promising young players.

Nikola Vucevic remains a rock offensively for the team.

While his efficiency has decreased this year as he has ventured out to the 3-point line a bit more often — too often, perhaps — he is still putting up solid numbers. Vucevic is averaging 19.5 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. Both numbers increased significantly once the team passed the midpoint of the season.

Vucevic started to look more like the All-Star who carried the team into the playoffs last year.

There might still be a desire to upgrade the position as Vucevic can still shy away from contact and get targeted defensively. He still has to prove himself in the playoffs after struggling so much last year against the Toronto Raptors.

The real prize here remains Mohamed Bamba and his development. It still feels very much that Vucevic is holding his place.

Mohamed Bamba is averaging 5.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. They are solid, but not spectacular numbers. It is clear Bamba still has to add strength. But he has made progress slowly and surely throughout the year.

His ability to block shots and his timing and positioning defensively have greatly improved with experience. That is at least where he can make a clear impact immediately. And he was showing more signs of improved shooting and offensive understanding.

But Bamba is not ready to start quite yet. He does not have the physicality necessary to anchor a defense full-time — although he has probably earned more minutes than he currently plays. It is tough for Bamba playing behind the Magic’s best and most consistent player for the time being.

Orlando has good depth here too with Khem Birch. Khem Birch has proven he can spot start and defend at a good level. He is a solid third center in the league.

If the Magic feel secure anywhere, it is at center with three good options should they need them.