Orlando Magic: Elfrid Payton Gets First Pro Start vs Hornets

The Orlando Magic’s rookie Elfrid Payton will get his first start at point guard tonight vs the Charlotte Hornets and will have a chance to keep it.

More from NBA

Elfrid Payton was picked No. 10 overall by the Philadelphia 76ers, then traded on draft night to the Orlando Magic. Orlando passed on a point guard with the fourth pick, even though it was their main position of need. Apparently, they had Payton targeted and came out of the draft with him.

Now they’ll see what he can do in his first start as a pro, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Already this preseason, Payton has demonstrated the terrific defense that we expected him to contribute. He and Victor Oladipo–who played point guard last season–will create a potentially dominating defensive back court (though very limited on offense, but the is potential there).

Since it doesn’t make much sense to continue playing Oladipo at the point or start veteran Luke Ridnour over Payton, I expect the starts to continue for Payton.

He will struggle with his shot, but the Magic are building for the future and Oladipo and Payton will need as much playing time together as they can get.

Payton is averaging six points on 41.7 percent shooting, six assists and 3.5 rebounds in two preseason games.

Stay with FanSided.com for the latest NBA news through the preseason and regular season.

More from FanSided

Home/NBA