The Orlando Magic, house owners of the Nos. 1, 32 and 35 picks within the NBA draft, can have a number of possibilities so as to add to their roster on June 23.
After kicking off a rebuild in March 2021, the Magic have already got important younger expertise. Orlando has 9 gamers who have been drafted within the first spherical since 2017 signed to contracts for the 2022-23 season.
Nonetheless, the Magic have clear wants after ending 2021-22 with a 22-60 file.
Because the roster stands, Orlando wants a 3-and-D wing/ahead — with an emphasis on dependable 3-point taking pictures — who has good measurement and size for his or her place. The Magic additionally might use one other large/middle, relying on what occurs with Mo Bamba’s restricted free company.
After taking a step ahead of their pre-draft evaluations in the course of the mid-Might NBA draft mix in Chicago, the Magic are internet hosting prospects for exercises forward of the draft.
This story is a part of a collection on gamers the Magic both interviewed or labored out in Orlando:
Kai Sotto (Adelaide 36ers — Australian NBL)
Peak: 7-foot-3 | Weight: 240 kilos | Age: 20 | Wingspan: 7-foot-5
2021-22 averages: 7.5 factors (50% from the sector — 51.4% on 2s, 38.5% on 3s) and 4.5 rebounds.
Connection: Labored out for the Magic on Might 26
Notice: Simply because a participant is figuring out for a group doesn’t imply they’re a goal to be drafted. A group not figuring out a prospect additionally doesn’t imply they received’t draft them. Six pre-draft prospects are allowed on the courtroom at a time and aren’t allowed on the courtroom with NBA gamers. Some gamers sought suggestions from NBA groups forward of the June 1 deadline school gamers needed to resolve whether or not they would keep within the draft or withdraw and maintain any remaining collegiate eligibility. Gamers have till the June 13 deadline to withdraw their names from the draft and retain draft eligibility for a future 12 months, which is very necessary for worldwide gamers reminiscent of Sotto and different non-college prospects.
The excitement: Sotto, a former 4-star prospect from the Philippines, signed with the G League Ignite in Might 2020 for the 2020-21 season however didn’t play a sport for them due to his obligations to the Philippine nationwide group. He and the G League Ignite formally parted methods in February 2021. Sotto signed with the 36ers in April 2021, successful the NBL’s Fan MVP after the 2021-22 season ended earlier than declaring for the NBA draft.
Scouting report: A cell large man who has a rising face-up sport offensively. Most of his offensive utilization got here as a roll man within the pick-and-roll or as a cutter. A strong passer, particularly for his measurement, however recorded extra turnovers (1.3) than assists (0.5). Made a excessive share of his 3-point makes an attempt, however on low quantity (5 of 13 in 23 video games). Might develop into a very good rim protector (1.9 blocks per 36 minutes), however must develop into extra disciplined (6.4 fouls per 36 minutes) and work on his lateral quickness.
Match: Sotto suits the mould of gamers the Magic have proven an affinity for — tall, lanky large males who've the potential to showcase versatile skillsets. Jonathan Isaac, Mo Bamba and Bol Bol are examples of gamers who match that billing. Sotto seems to be behind that trio after they have been drafted development-wise. He isn’t projected to be drafted however might make an intriguing possibility for Orlando’s G League affiliate, the Lakeland Magic, if he isn’t drafted and doesn’t return to the 36ers.
This text first appeared on OrlandoSentinel.com. Electronic mail Khobi Worth at khprice@orlandosentinel.com or comply with him on Twitter at @khobi_price.
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