Orlando Magic Playbook: Wendell Carter has shown immediate promise
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The future is bright
The Orlando Magic have to feel good about the future with Carter Jr. manning the middle. Based upon his early play, Orlando may have struck gold in securing a two-way big with high upside.
Health will be tantamount to Carter’s development going forward, as he has already dealt with a serious injury to his quad earlier this season. Like Mohamed Bamba, the prospect of playing the remainder of the season and refining his offensive skill set in the offseason is paramount.
Beyond the 2021 season, the Magic have an opportunity to field one of the best defensive frontcourts in the NBA — assuming Jonathan Isaac is able to return to on-court activities this summer and start the 2022 season on schedule.
Jeff Weltman and his staff have to field a sense of relief from Carter Jr.’s impressive start. Even the most optimistic projection wouldn’t have had his production at such a level this early.
Next. Magic veterans are still key to success. dark
With Vucevic and the rest of the veteran core gone, the next era of Orlando Magic basketball began this spring. At the very least, the Magic can feel good that they’ve found a center that they can build around for the future.