Orlando Magic Center Goga Bitadze 'Fantastic' in Win vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Says Jamahl Mosley
After being selected with the 18th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Goga Bitadze hasn't had the success that he would have hoped for. But now, he may have finally found a home with the Orlando Magic.
Bitadze drew his first start of the season in Saturday's 120-101 win against the Los Angeles Lakers, and he set the tone early with a block in the game's first play.
"I think he was fantastic," Mosley said. "He stepped into the moment you know, his number was called and he was ready to go and I think it's what he's done. Since he's been here with us, he's a heck of a pick and roll defender. And he does a great job protecting the rim as well as finishing possessions with a defensive rebound."
Bitadze was a very large part of the Magic's commanding win against a very strong Lakers team, and he did the majority of his damage on the defensive side of the ball.
The big man tallied up an impressive total of five blocks in the game, including the one that he got on the very first play in the first quarter. Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley talked more about Bitadze's impact on the defensive end in his postgame interview.
Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze defends Los Angeles Lakers center Anthony Davis (3)
Mike Watters-USA Today Sports
Going forward this season, Bitadze may earn himself some more consistent playing time and make himself a key part of what the Magic is looking to do this season.
He will get another chance to do just that as he and the rest of the Magic will be back in action on Monday against the Dallas Mavericks. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. from the Amway Center.
