Magic Rookie Anthony Black Could Be 'Home Run Pick,' Says NBA Exec
The Orlando Magic has had an incredible offseason, all things considered. The team is building off a promising regular season which displayed tremendous upside.
With the squad having already been promising, another year would have done wonders to the Magic's record. However, the team added more young talent to the squad in the draft, having drafted two lottery picks.
At pick No. 6, the Magic landed Anthony Black. The team also picked at pick No. 11, where it landed Jett Howard. Both the young guys fit amongst the squad uniquely and will provide different aspects of the game.
“Anthony Black is ready to defend in the NBA today," an anonymous executive told Spotrac's Keith Smith. "He’s projected as an on-ball guy, but early on, he’ll probably be a secondary creator on offense. The question is going to be his shot. If he hits shots, this is a homerun pick, because he can do everything else.”
In Black's Summer League action, this was all made true. Even when Black was missing his shots, he was producing one way or another. Whether it be his passing, defense or rebounding, Black was adding real value to the Magic.
With lineups that include proper floor spacing and players for Black to play a two-man, pick-and-roll game with, he will be able to show his value very early on, and the potential lack of shooting will be much less of an issue. Whether it be the starters or the bench, whoever Black shares the floor with, the Magic can equip Black with suitable teammates to maximize everyone's talent.
Again, ahead of the draft, this Magic squad was young and more than promising. Hitting on a pick like Black is only going to extend the team's chances for a title in the future. He could ensure that this young core works out and gives the Magic the tools to build a proper contender down the road.
You can follow Kade Kimble on Twitter @KadeKimble.
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.
