2023 NBA Draft: The Perfect Haul For Orlando

In March of 2021, Orlando traded All-Star center Nikola Vucevic to Chicago. In return, the Magic received Wendell Carter Jr., Otto Porter Jr., and two future first-round picks. One of these first-round picks conveyed this year, landing the Magic the No. 11 overall pick via the Bulls. This comes in addition to Orlando’s own pick at sixth overall.

Orlando has hit grand slams in each of the last two drafts. In 2021, they selected Franz Wagner with the eight pick. He immediately shone as a rookie and took another leap as a sophomore. This season, the 6-foot-9 German averaged 18.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, and 1.0 steals while shooting 36.1% from deep. The former Michigan Wolverine boasts a fascinating skillset, mixing craft and wits with impressive movement at his size.

Last year, the Magic were blessed with the top pick, and spent it wisely on Paolo Banchero. The nearly-unanimous Rookie Of The Year had an unforgettable debut campaign. He notched an average statline of 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while getting to the free throw line 7.4 times per contest. The 6-foot-10 former Duke Blue Devil combines an unseen level of power, finesse, and skill into his 250 pound frame. As a result, he’s already an undeniable offensive force at the age of 20 years old.

Banchero is destined for megastardom in due time, and Wagner should enjoy some stardom himself. Orlando surrounds this unique forward duo with a young core consisting of Wendell Carter Jr. at center and Jalen Suggs, Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony, and Caleb Houstan in the guard room. This is a great start, but the Magic can bolster their future even more with their two lottery picks in this June’s draft. There are two selections that would make this night perfect for Orlando faithful.

With the sixth pick, the Magic should look to Ausar Thompson if he’s on the board. The 6-foot-7 big guard brings a dynamism Orlando currently lacks in the guard room. With some development, the freakishly athletic slasher could be the primary playmaker for Banchero and Wagner to play off of. Additionally, Thompson’s upside is through the roof if his jumpshot keeps developing as it has been.

With the eleventh pick, Orlando should target Gradey Dick. The 6-foot-8 wing was fantastic at Kansas this year, showcasing his shooting ability; he shot over 40% from beyond the arc. This is vital for a Magic team that ranked 25th in made 3s this past season. In addition, Dick brings vital complimentary skills such as connective passing, cutting, rebounding, and team defense.

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