2023 NBA Mock Draft 8.0: Spurs win Wembanyama sweepstakes
The Magic have long prioritized athleticism and length on draft night. Gradey Dick isn’t the most explosive athlete, but he does bring size to the perimeter (6-foot-8) and he’s probably the single most ideal offensive fit available.
Dick, next to the aforementioned Hawkins, is in the running for the best shooter in the draft. He can fly around the perimeter like a madman, or he can size his man up off the dribble before burying him in a sea of nylon. The Magic offense already has multiple sources of playmaking and scoring around the rim; what it desperately needs is someone to draw the defense out to the 3-point line.
With Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Markelle Fultz slashing downhill, Dick would be well-positioned to feast on spot-up jumpers. Dick also offers complementary support beyond his shooting. He doesn’t have the burst or wiggle to create his own shots, but Dick is a rapid-fire playmaker who loves to keep the ball popping around the floor.
There are valid concerns about Dick’s ability to defend stronger wings one-on-one. He won’t be able to keep pace with twitcher guards on the perimeter either. That said, Dick does bring a fair amount of size and intelligence to the defensive end. He knows when to help and he’s active in passing lanes. He’s not the complete defensive liability some are making him out to be.
Check out our full scouting report on Gradey Dick.