Orlando Magic's Elfrid Payton 'beyond his years'

Orlando Magic’s Elfrid Payton ‘beyond his years’

By Bryan Rose | Oct 13, 2014

Oct 10, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) dribbles the ball in the game against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Orlando Magic beat the Indiana Pacers by the score of 96-93. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

In the months leading up to the 2014 NBA Draft, Elfrid Payton was thought to be nothing more than a borderline selection though an impressive combine quickly changed such an opinion.

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While questions remained about his skill set given his lack of competition in a small mid-conference, it was clear Elfrid Payton’s draft stock was soaring. Eventually the former Rajun’ Cajun would become a top ten pick and found himself with the Orlando Magic after a draft night trade.

Since that time Payton has done nothing other than impress all who’ve watched including teammate Luke Ridnour who suggests the point guard is ‘beyond his years’.

.@OrlandoMagic Luke Ridnour on @elfrid : "He’s beyond his years. You can tell he’s poised, understands the game & makes the right decisions"
— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) October 13, 2014

It’s difficult to disagree there as Payton looks like a veteran on the court despite not being able to drink legally.

The Louisiana native isn’t much of a shooter and isn’t likely to stretch the perimeter at any point during his career, though he certainly understands how to properly pass and take smart shots that are within his ability and talent level.

That’s half of the battle in terms of young talent so it appears as if the Orlando Magic struck gold with their trading of Elfrid Payton.

Many have compared Payton to a younger version of Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo, but unlike Rondo, Payton doesn’t come with the questionable attitude and constant headaches that the former Kentucky Wildcat seems to cause.

It’s questionable if Elfrid Payton will open the Orlando Magic’s season as the starting point guard though it’s very likely he’ll end the season in such a role.

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