Orlando Magic Daily
Fansided

2023 NBA Summer League: 5 Orlando Magic players to watch

By Patrick Previty

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 09: Caleb Houstan #2 of the Orlando Magic passes against the Sacramento Kings during the 2022 NBA Summer League at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 09, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 09: Caleb Houstan #2 of the Orlando Magic passes against the Sacramento Kings during the 2022 NBA Summer League at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 09, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
6 of 6
Next
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 22: Anthony Black celebrates after being drafted sixth overall pick by the Orlando Magic during the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2023 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. 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 Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 22: Anthony Black celebrates after being drafted sixth overall pick by the Orlando Magic during the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2023 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. 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 Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

5 players to watch at Orlando Magic Summer League

1. Anthony Black

The sixth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and No.1 player to watch on this list, Anthony Black will compete for minutes in a crowded Magic backcourt this upcoming season.

In a move that surprised some, the selection of the point guard from Arkansas brought questions about where the front office goes in the future.

With Markelle Fultz and two former lottery picks also in the fold for the Magic, minutes will not exactly be handed out come regular season time.

And if he plays well — or up to the expectations of a lottery pick — the organization might need to make a decision sooner rather than later.

But for now, Black will lead the Magic in the Summer League and eyes will be glued to his passing and defensive ability.

As a freshman, he led the Arkansas Razorbacks in an unlikely run to the Sweet Sixteen before losing to the eventual champion UConn Huskies. He averaged 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 2.1 steals per game.

Black excels with creative passing and court vision but his shooting leaves something to be desired.

Many point to his shooting form as what will need some work and it is crucial he shows some improvement in the couple of games he will play (because it most likely will not be all five games).

He will most likely take the brunt of the criticism if he does not shine, and he will also get the adoration from fans wanting him to start on day 1 if he plays well.

The stakes for Black are a bit higher than Jett Howard or some of the other guys as far as media attention, but this will not be his last opportunity.

dark. Next. Retaining Gary Harris is a no brainer

So it is important to enjoy the ride for the time he does play in this year’s summer league.