Following a disappointing 29-53 season for the Orlando Magic, the team sought a new direction. Last week the Magic made the decision to fire general manager Rob Hennigan, who had been under increasing pressure throughout the season. The end of Hennigan’s tenure has marked a new beginning for the franchise, both on and off the court.
Orlando Magic Mock Draft 1.0: Malik Monk to Orlando?
The Magic failed to establish an identity on either end of the floor, ranking 29th offensively and 24th defensively during the regular season. Whilst the defense might not be such a concern, the front office will certainly need to fill the void in the teams offense. Whomever steps in as the new general manager in Orlando will be looking to add to the teams young core. Make no mistake, the situation for the Magic is certainly not a dire one. Orlando posses four picks in a draft class loaded with talent. With a variety of options available for the Magic, lets jump straight into the first mock draft of the off-season.
Note: The NBA Draft Lottery does not take place until the 16th of May. The first pick is based purely on the teams regular season standing.
Round One, Pick Five
Malik Monk (Kentucky, 6’3″, SG, Freshman)
In what appears to be a clear toss up between Jayson Tatum and Monk, the Kentucky guard comes out on top in this mock draft. Monk packs the offensive punch that the Magic lacked this season. Averaging a stellar 19.8 points per game on an impressive 45% from the field; Monk is a perfect fit in Orlando. Shooting a efficient 39.7 percent from deep, Monk has no problem knocking down shots from deep. With explosive play and agressive finishing at the rim, Monk seemingly has no problem scoring from anywhere. With consistent defensive play completing his forte, a backcourt constisting of Monk and Elfrid Payton, is an exciting prospect for Magic fans.
Round One, Pick 25 (via Toronto Raptors)
Luke Kennard (Duke, 6’5″, SG, Sophomore)
The Magic continue to bolster their offense with the addition of perhaps the best offensive player in the ACC. Kennard exploded for Duke during his sophomore year and was key to the teams ACC Tournament run. Shooting a 46.1 field goal percentage over his collegiate career, Kennard has also improved his three-point shooting. Hitting 44.8 percent on the three ball this season, Kennard can knock it down from beyond the arc both on catch-and-shoot attempts and off the dribble. A consistent threat, Kennard can have an impact as a starter or off the bench and Orlando should not miss the opportunity to add Kennard to the roster.
Round Two, Pick 33 (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Tyler Lydon (Syracuse, 6’9″, PF, Sophomore)
With players such as Jeff Green and Damjan Rudez likely moving on this summer, the Magic will seek to add depth at the four spot. Whilst an improving Aaron Gordon is likely to see the majority of minutes at this position next season, Lydon would be a perfect backup. Lydon runs the floor well and is the type of ‘spread big’ that the Magic are in need of. Lydon has ideal size to create a mismatch against smaller opponents and his spot up shooting can help to further improve the Magic offense.
Round Two, Pick 35
Dwayne Bacon (Florida State, 6’7″, SF, Sophomore)
Finally, the Magic continue to add efficient scoring players with Bacon. The Florida State wing had an impressive sophomore year in Tallahassee and was a big part of the Seminoles success. Averaging 17.2 points per game this past season, Bacon would likely slot in as a backup three behid Terrence Ross. His high octane play, court vision and improved shooting would provide a serious boost off the bench for Orlando.
Main Photo
LOUISVILLE, KY – DECEMBER 21: Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) walks down the floor during the second half on December 21, 2016 at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, KY. Louisville defeated Kentucky 73-70. (Photo by Chris Humphrey/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
