Magic Draft History: No. 6 Pick Gives Mixed Bag
In this story:
ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic will soon be on the clock with the No. 6 pick, a familiar place to the organization in recent history.
The 2023 NBA Draft marks the third time in the last seven years that the Magic will hold the No. 6 pick.
In 2017, the Magic selected Jonathan Isaac, whose talent has made the jump from college to the pros. However, his injuries have hindered his career and led people to think what could have been. Ironically, the Magic may be drafting Isaac's eventual placement with this year's No. 6 overall pick.
A year later, the Magic found itself back in the No. 6 spot and selected Texas center Mo Bamba. The former Longhorn had a ton of promise coming into the league, but ultimately didn't pan out for Orlando. The Magic traded him to the Los Angeles Lakers this past February ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline.
However, there is hope for the Magic when it comes to the No. 6 pick. Every selection since 2012 is still in the NBA, and stars can be found at the position, including Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard (2012) and Boston Celtics forward Antoine Walker (1996). However, there are a fair share of infamous misses, including Jan Vesely (2011) and Jonny Flynn (2009), both of whom were taken over future Hall-of-Famers.
Ultimately, if the Magic keep this pick, Orlando must recognize the risk but be confident in who it takes.
You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Magic? Click Here.
Follow The Magic Insider on Facebook.
Follow The Magic Insider on Twitter.
Want even more Orlando Magic news? Check out the SI.com team page here.
