2023 NBA Mock Draft 8.0: Spurs win Wembanyama sweepstakes

The Magic have prioritized athleticism and positional versatility above all else in years past. Ausar Thompson fits right in, offering the Magic an explosive playmaker who, at 6-foot-7, can guard all over the perimeter. Orlando would have some difficult personnel decisions to make in the backcourt, but Thompson is too talented to pass up.

Thompson is a blinding-quick slasher who has no trouble getting into the paint and creating for teammates. He’s a reactive, visionary passer who could end up leading the draft class in assists. He spent some time off the ball for the City Reapers in the Overtime Elite league too, which could hasten his acclimation period playing alongside other playmaking wings like Banchero and Wagner.

What will give Orlando the most pause is Thompson’s poor jumper. He’s further along than his twin brother Amen, but Ausar still won’t demand consistent attention on the perimeter when he enters the league. Spacing is already an issue for the Magic, especially when one considers Markelle Fultz’s place in the offensive hierarchy (a Thompson pick might beget a Fultz trade).

Orlando adds an elite shooter in Gradey Dick with the No. 11 pick, however, and there’s enough shooting between Franz Wagner, Wendell Carter Jr., and Cole Anthony to avoid the complete arterial blockage of driving lanes. Orlando would have to work to place the right supporting cast around the Thompson-Banchero-Wagner triumvirate, but the skill level and athleticism between them are breathtaking to think about.

Check out our full scouting report on Ausar Thompson.