2018 NBA Mock Draft: The standings are set
F. Missouri. Michael Porter Jr.. 5. player. 38.
Magic fans were somewhat horrified by my mock selection of Marvin Bagley III for their team in this space last week, so I went back to the drawing board a little bit to reconsider Orlando’s priorities.
Most important will be their relations with Aaron Gordon, who has developed into an All-Star caliber player during five seasons with the franchise and is a free agent this summer. He will be one of the most coveted young prospects on the market, and the Magic need to decide how much he is worth to them and whether they are willing to fight to keep him.
Next, they need to keep in mind the potential fit with Jonathan Isaac, the team’s first-round pick last year who struggled with injury this season. Mostly, the fans who responded on Twitter were worried that there might be overlap with Isaac and Gordon if Bagley came in. They seemed to believe Gordon’s return was more likely than not.
However, I don’t love how Bagley fits with Isaac or Gordon, meaning the Magic could go elsewhere with their top pick. Porter is more of a natural modern scorer, and projects as a four in the NBA rather than a center. That consistent offense is what Orlando needs.