Magic Postseason Profile: Chuma Okeke Looks to 'Keep Putting In The Work'

Orlando Magic forward Chuma Okeke posted 4.7 points and 3.6 rebounds in 27 games this season.

Jim Dedmon/USA Today Sports

Orlando Magic forward Chuma Okeke is recovering from a challenging season both on and off the court.

After appearing in Orlando's first 18 games of the year - including seven starts - the 24-year-old underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee in December to "repair and reshape damaged cartilage in the joint."

"Each and every one of us got our own type of resiliency," Okeke said. "We've all been through something on this team, injuries, or off the court stuff, whatever the case may be. So that just makes it hard to give up when you work so hard for something.

"When you got people supporting, like they were doing for me, you just keep pushing, not only for yourself but for other people."

Okeke returned to the lineup sparingly throughout Orlando's final 20 games of the year, but struggled to find any real consistency over that stretch. 

"I understood I was gonna have to earn my minutes back and get back into the rotation," Okeke said. "I just had the mindset of 'keep putting in the work' and whenever my name is called hopefully my body will be ready."

Entering his fourth NBA season, the Magic organization and Okeke look to bring back the player that showcased elite 3-and-D potential during his collegiate career. 

"This is gonna be a big offseason for me to continue to learn about my body," Okeke said. "And continue to get stronger and I'm always gonna put the work in on the court."

Okeke looks to compete in a frontcourt rotation of Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero and Bol Bol. 

---

You can follow Riley Sheppard on Twitter @RileyDSheppard.

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.