5 questions for the Orlando Magic to answer in training camp

5 training camp questions for the Orlando Magic

What role will the rookies play?

The Orlando Magic had a lot riding on Draft night. Having two Lottery picks in any draft is always an opportunity to add some real talent to the roster.

There were definitely people a bit puzzled with what the Magic were doing when they drafted Anthony Black with the sixth pick in the draft and Jett Howard with the 11th pick in the draft.

More importantly, with the logjam the Magic seemed to have in their guard room, it was a bit puzzling to ask how would either of these players find their place within the Magic’s rotation.

And that is a fair question to ask. The Magic did not make a consolidation trade. They brought back the same roster from last year and did not even lose any players from the rotation. Where are Black and Howard going to fit in?

While the Magic might have more health entering training camp, that is not going to last. Every player on the roster is going to have their moment. And the Magic should at least have some confidence that everyone can contribute something.

Black and Howard are likely to find their minutes somewhere within the Magic’s rotation. Whether they keep that spot or whether their contributions are limited or a by-committee approach is certainly a question. Especially as the season gets tighter later in the season.

The Magic have said repeatedly that there will be plenty of internal competition and no one’s minutes will be handed out. Black and Howard both have to show they have skills that can contribute to the team winning. And that proof is going to come in training camp.

Still, the team is invested in their development. They are not going to bury them on the bench unless there is nothing redeeming about them. That feels very unlikely.

But expect both Black and Howard to have very simple roles. Orlando does not need them to start or carry the team. The Magic need them to fill a role and contribute where they can. And that will be part of the discovery for this season.