Magic Emphasizing 'Versatility' With Draft Selections

After selecting guards Anthony Black and Jett Howard in the NBA Draft, the Orlando Magic added upon its abundance of length.

The Orlando Magic just got a whole lot taller. 

And despite that statement being hard to process, by drafting guards Anthony Black and Jett Howard - who are 6-7 and 6-8 respectively - Orlando just added upon its already versatile roster. 

"We're getting guys that can play multiple positions," Magic president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman said. "There are a host of combinations that coach can go with and the more options that he has the better."

For the Magic, who hung its hat on defense throughout the regular season, adding Howard and Black - who are capable of switching on to smaller guards - only elevates its potential on that end. 

The rookie duo now joins an already lengthy roster of Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, Wendell Carter Jr., Jonathan Isaac and Bol Bol - all listed at 6-10 or above. 

But for Black, not only was it his defensive versatility that stood out, but also the ability to play as a jumbo guard alongside a backcourt of Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony. 

"I think [Black] kind of transcends position and that's what we're looking for," Weltman said. "He's gonna guard three positions, he's gonna facilitate for others. I think he'll give coach a lot of options as to how to put different combinations on the floor that'll suit his needs that game. The more versatility the better."

Magic fans will have their first opportunity to watch the newcomers in NBA Summer League which begins July 7. 

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You can follow Riley Sheppard on Twitter @RileyDSheppard.

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