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NBA Draft: Early draft options for the Orlando Magic with the 15th pick

By Chet Stirston

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 16: Head Coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic attends Day One of the 2019 NBA Draft Combine on May 16, 2019 at the Quest MultiSport Complex in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 16: Head Coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic attends Day One of the 2019 NBA Draft Combine on May 16, 2019 at the Quest MultiSport Complex in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Josh Green, Arizona Wildcats
Josh Green is a growing player and potential shooter coming from Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

The Shooting Guards

Josh Green

Age: 19 Height: 6-6 Weight: 210lb Projects:  Shooting Guard
2019: Arizona Born: Sydney, Australia

Average Draft Pick: 18.8
Orlando Magic Daily Rank:  14

Australia is increasingly making its presence on the basketball stage known with several players now making impact in the NBA, a strong showing at the FIBA World Cup last summer and as a growing league hosting some of the best young talent deciding to skip the NCAA route.

The Boomers still have some players making their way stateside. Arizona Wildcats guard Josh Green is certainly carrying on that legacy.

This Aussie is ranked number 14 in my ranking and has an average draft pick of 18.8. If the Magic are looking for a shooter, Green may be the look.

He reminds me of Dan Majerle. He is fast in transition and shoots quick off the pass. He made 36.1 percent of his 3-pointers last year with Arizona.

He could be a Terrence Ross-type player. A decreased role in the offense may translate to an improved jumper. and better efficiency.

Green is a solid defender as well with the ability to challenge some bigger forwards on defense.

Devin Vassell, Florida Stat eSeminoles
Devin Vassell has the perfect mix of size and length to go with his shooting to be a solid fit for the Orlando Magic. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Devin Vassell

Age: 19 (8/23/00) Height:  6-6 Weight: 187lb Projects: Shooting Guard
2019: Florida State Born: Suwanee, GA

Average Draft Pick: 19
Orlando Magic Daily Rank:  17

I have ranked popular Magic pick and Florida State Seminoles guard Devin Vassell is ranked 17th in my rankings. Two spots ahead of his 19 average draft pick rating.

But Vassell is one of the risers in most mock drafts and with scouts. He had a stellar junior year and likely would have led Florida State on a deep NCAA Tournament run.

Vassell might arguably be the best all-around player in the draft. He looks like he could be interchangeable at 1- and 2-guard positions. He could make an immediate impact for most teams.

He is possibly the best defending guard too in the draft. He is a polished shooter and a plus defender who does not turn the ball over.

If the Magic end up with Vassell it could be a blessing. He may be undervalued currently, and I imagine him climbing in average draft pick percentage as we near the draft.

Aaron Nesmith

Age: 20 Height: 6-6 Weight: 215lb Projects: Shooting Guard
2019: Vanderbilt Born: Charleston, SC

Average Draft Pick: 19.6
Orlando Magic Daily Rank:  19

This Vanderbilt Commodore is 19th on my draft board and has a 19.6 average draft pick in most mocks.

He is a consistent high-percentage shooter and a possible closer if given the late shot. He possibly would be ranked higher without the fractured right foot he suffered in January.

He can play small forward and guard.

The skill is undeniable though. He arguably is the best long-range shooter in the draft.

NBA.com points out he was well on his way to setting SEC shooting records before his foot injury which shouldn’t be a factor going forward.