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5 players Orlando Magic need to target in NBA Draft

By Rob Wolkenbrod

Feb 27, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes forward Jakob Poeltl (42) dribbles the ball during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at Jon M. Huntsman Center. Utah 2on 70-64. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 27, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes forward Jakob Poeltl (42) dribbles the ball during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at Jon M. Huntsman Center. Utah 2on 70-64. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 9, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears forward Jaylen Brown (0) looks to pass against Incarnate Word Cardinals guard Shawn Johnson (41) in the second half at Haas Pavilion. Cal won 74-62. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sport
Dec 9, 2015; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears forward Jaylen Brown (0) looks to pass against Incarnate Word Cardinals guard Shawn Johnson (41) in the second half at Haas Pavilion. Cal won 74-62. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sport /

1. Jaylen Brown, SG, California

At No. 11, the Magic will likely lose out on some of the best players in the draft. With the top 5 taking shape, though, players like Jaylen Brown may go outside the first group of selections. He’ll probably be a top 10 pick, and within range of the Magic, who could trade up for him.

As noted, the Magic dealt with issues at shooting guard and small forward in 2015-16. Victor Oladipo didn’t progress and Mario Hezonja struggled for most of his rookie season. This could lead to the Magic wanting to get a backup, or someone who could challenge either player. If the organization wants to get bold, they could move up a few spots during the 2016 NBA Draft and select Brown out of California.

Coming into the 2015-16 NCAA basketball season, Brown was seen as a top 5 pick. This is due to his NBA-ready body of 225 lbs at 6-foot-6, and his athleticism. It’s very good for his size and position. The ability to drive to the hoop while using his athleticism has benefited Brown.

The issue has been to find a consistent jump shot. Brown only shot 29-percent from three-point range in 2015-16, which was a concern. This is why guards like Buddy Hield and Jamal Murray may go ahead of the former Cal standout. However, if he can develop a long range shot, Brown could become a great player, and that may be enough for the Magic to gamble on making a deal.

Moving up isn’t going to be easy, though. With the Lakers 2018 first round pick in hand, however, that could be something to dangle for potentially interested teams. The Magic’s own 2017 pick may be had too. Sliding up to around No. 7 or No. 6 could do the trick if the Nuggets or Pelicans are interested.

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