Orlando Magic’s Elfrid Payton compares to Boston Celtics’ Rajon Rondo
Many believe Orlando Magic rookie Elfrid Payton compares to Boston Celtics’ point guard Rajon Rondo
[relaed-cateogry]After selecting former Arizona Wildcats’ forward Aaron Gordon with the fourth-overall pick, the Orlando Magic gave up a future pick to go up from No. 10 to No. 12 to acquire former Louisiana Lafayette Ragin Cajuns’ point guard Elfrid Payton. Elfrid Payton was very impressive in the Orlando Pro Summer League and looked more than competent in the Magic’s preseason opener against the Miami Heat.
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Cody Taylor believes Elfrid Payton compares to Boston Celtics’ point guard Rajon Rondo.
"The Orlando Magic brought in Elfrid Payton through the draft and have really high hopes for him. Playing alongside Oladipo, the Magic’s backcourt duo can become one of the best in the league in terms of defense. Oladipo finished last season 15th in the league with 1.61 steals per game and Payton’s 6’4 frame and quick hands will allow him to knock a lot of balls loose as well. The spacing that Frye will provide will be huge for Payton as he showed in college the ability to drive to the lane very quickly. Payton welcomes the early comparisons to Rajon Rondo, but wants to make a name for himself on his own terms which likely won’t happen for another season or two."
Obviously the Magic would be pleased if Elfrid Payton winds up being as good as Rajon Rondo. They have put a lot of stock in their back court, taking a guard in the lottery in of the last two seasons. If their 2013 first round pick, Victor Olaidpo continues to develop and Elfrid Payton can play at the level Taylor thinks he can get to in time, the Magic could have one of the league’s better back courts for some time.
Payton put up 19.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 2.3 steals per game and shot 50.0% from the floor, but just 25.9% from beyond the arc and 59.0% from the free throw line for the Ragin’ Cajuns last season.
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