2012 NBA Draft Grades: Magic Select Andrew Nicholson

Pick 19: Orlando Magic
Selection: Andrew Nicholson

Bryan Rosa – A Royal Pain

I thought the Magic, who would be looking for a big, would take a chance on Ohio State’s Jared Sullinger but they went with Nicholson who I viewed as a low 20’s pick. Nicholson’s a very smart player and a solid scorer but he lacks an NBA ready body size (weight) right now. Not a great athlete and a player who struggles inside at times. Personally, I think they should’ve taken a risk – but they went with a steady talent instead and that’s hard to criticize.

Grade: C+

Jack Winter-Saving the Skyhook

Nicholson is one of the most NBA ready players in the draft, a post presence that scores with consistency and has good size at the 4. How he fits with the Magic is obviously influenced by what happens with Dwight Howard, but he’s good value here. He gets some David West comparisons due to his ability to shoot from the perimeter, high praise for a player selected this late. With Perry Jones III still on the board, though, the Magic might have been better off swinging for the fences given the roster’s precarious state.

Grade: B

Bryan Wendland-Roberto Gato

Another guy who people say has a lot of potential, but I think Nicholson will contribute right away. I like his offensive game and he’s a pretty good defender, too. The Magic could’ve gone bigger and drafted a guy like Perry Jones III, but they didn’t go wrong here. Nicholson had a very good senior season and he’ll be ready to get things done when the season starts.

Grade: A

Quixem Ramirez- Air Alamo
Nicholson improved his 3-point percentage to 43.4% in his senior year. He also happens to be pretty adept at scoring in the post which is a nice asset for an Orlando team devoid of much versatility.

Grade: B+