Elfrid Payton being Orlando Magic point guard is 'a lot to ask'

Being a rookie point guard in the NBA is somewhat similar to being a rookie quarterback in the NFL. Being thrown into the fire isn’t always the best course of action, but it’s something the Orlando Magic are expected to do with Elfrid Payton.

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Is that a smart move though? There seems to be a difference of opinion with some suggesting Elfrid Payton isn’t NBA ready while others seem to believe he’s more than capable of taking the reigns of the Orlando Magic franchise.

Larry Coon of Basketball Insiders seems unsure of which direction he’s leaning, though does suggest it’s asking a lot of Elfrid Payton to step right in and be a source of major minutes.

"I think that’s a lot to ask — I don’t know how truly NBA ready he is. Of course, that’s a lot of what training camp and the exhibition season is for."

While Coon does have a point as the point guard position is likely the most difficult to pick up for a young player, Elfrid Payton is a very knowledgeable player and seems more than capable of holding down the spot. Yes, like every rookie there will be struggles but the Orlando Magic have no reason not to give Payton every opportunity to win the job out of camp.

If the Orlando Magic were expected to battle for a playoff spot and had a veteran at the position, maybe it’s a different story. But with their current roster and situation, Elfrid Payton should see the court all the time.

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Orlando Magic asking too much of Elfrid Payton?

By Bryan Rose | Sep 27, 2014

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