ORLANDO (Fla.) — The college basketball season has ended nearly three months ago. However, the NBA draft lottery took place more than a year ago. The draft is taking place later in the week.
The process seems to be slowing down.
Orlando Magic President Jeff Weltman views it differently
Weltman stated Monday that “It's still early in this process,”
Translated from the English: The Magic aren't sure what they will do on Thursday night. 1 pick. The Magic has evaluated all of the top candidates and have called other teams to determine the asking price if they wish to trade.
Weltman doesn't see any reason to make a decision before it is absolutely necessary. This is especially true when Orlando has the chance to hold this No. 1 pick.
Weltman stated, “Dialogue is always ongoing.” “But, the most important thing is that we can do what we want. This is the true benefit of the No. 1 pick.”
The most prominent candidates are well-known for this pick: Auburn's Jabari Smith Jr. was a volunteer for Orlando in the beginning of this month. Gonzaga's Chet Holmgren met with the Magic For multiple days last week Duke's Paolo Banchero has been working out with former Magic guard Mike Miller.
Weltman would not say that these are the only candidates Orlando would consider for No. 1.
Weltman stated, “It's been confirmed that there are many talented players at the very top of this draft. That's for certain.”
Orlando will be the No. 1 pick for the fourth time. 1 pick. Shaquille Oleal, the Magic's top selection in 1992, was taken by the Magic. Chris Webber The No. In 1993, Orlando selected him as the No. 1 pick. He was traded for Penny Hardaway that night and a bundle of future picks. These picks were later turned into Vince Carter, Miller, and later, Miller. In 2004, the Magic made their selection Dwight Howard With the first selection.
The No. The No. Markelle Fultz, a pair top-eight picks in the 2021 draft Franz Wagner Jalen SuggsAnd Cole Anthony The No. 15th pick in 2020 draft
Orlando also holds the No. 6 picks in the 2017 and 2018 drafts Jonathan Isaac Mo Bamba. Orlando could be home to as many as six lottery picks, nine top-16 selections, and twelve first-rounders when the next season begins.
All of this is part of the challenge that the Magic faces — they also have No. The Magic also have the No. 32 and No. 35 picks this year. 35 picks this season — going into Thursday. Finding more youth that is compatible with the core of the current core, finding new ways to be better next year and sustainable improvement for years to follow.
Weltman stated, “We want to improve but not at any cost of returning to mediocrity.” “And we do desire something sustainable. You have to raise the standard in order to achieve that. You cannot just remain at the basement level interminably. These are conversations we're having about which players do this for us.
