Magic Rookie Jett Howard Is Not Your Average 3-Point Shooter
ORLANDO - Orlando Magic guard Jett Howard is not your average 3-point shooter, and he could prove to be a difference maker for them this season.
The 19-year-old sharpshooter was drafted by the Magic with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Howard played one season for the University of Michigan and averaged 14.2 points while shooting 36.8 percent from deep on 7.3 attempts per game.
While 36.8 percent from behind the arc isn’t breaking any records, Howard is known for his incredibly quick release and ability to find space and lose his defender. His shooting prowess will be vital in lineups with worse shooters like Paolo Banchero, Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs and fellow rookie Anthony Black.
A lot of fans and analysts were shocked that Orlando chose him over Gradey Dick, another great shooter in the draft class that came out of Kansas University. Dick was selected two picks after Howard at No. 13 overall by the Toronto Raptors.
Some may say that the Magic reached on him or should have drafted someone else with their pick, but it’s up to Howard to prove those people wrong. The best way for him to silence his critics will be to go out and perform as a rookie.
Howard and Orlando will be in action on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans when the preseason begins on Oct. 10.
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