The Orlando Magic have created depth by making a handful of smart moves this summer and selecting an underdog player during the draft.
Mario Hezonja, remember the name. The 20-year-old Croatian, fifth overall pick, excited the fans with a few impeccable plays during the Orlando Summer League. With a monstrous dunk and a game-winning shot, Hezonja was a must-watch rookie in Summer League action.
Hezonja averaged 13.0 points during Summer League play in Orlando and is expected to serve as a backup small forward in the Magic’s rotation. Nonetheless, if his Summer League play means anything, Hezonja could become a valuable asset on Orlando’s young roster.
When the Magic headed into free agency, their one goal was to retain restricted free agent Tobias Harris, which is exactly what they did. Harris, 23, has been improving each and every year. Last season, he averaged 17.1 points and 6.3 rebounds on 46.6 percent shooting from the field.
Harris has extended his range over the years, hitting three-point shots at a higher clip (36.4%) last year. He also slightly improved his overall efficiency from the floor. Since coming over from Milwaukee in 2013, Harris has become a major component to Orlando’s rebuilding process, so re-signing him to a long-term deal was a necessity.
As mentioned in New York Knicks’ off-season grade, the Magic lost Kyle O’Quinn but gained Jason Smith as a replacement. Smith is a good substitute for O’Quinn, as the 29-year old is another physical player who also has the ability to knock down mid-range jumpers at a high rate.
Another solid addition to the roster was C.J. Watson. The eight-year journeyman has been an adequate backup point guard for all the teams he has played for, and will supply Orlando with decent three-point shooting and play making.
Last year for the Indiana Pacers, Watson averaged 10.0 points, 3.6 assists, and 2.9 rebounds. However, he earned 21 starts due to George Hill being sidelined with injury. Watson is not a fancy player by any means, but he quietly gets the job done and will be a nice piece off Orlando’s bench.
To add further point guard depth, the Magic traded for Shabazz Napier. The 24-year old prospect didn’t earn much time with the Miami Heat last season, but he had quite a few stellar performances. Being on a young, up-and-coming team, perhaps Napier can receive more time on the floor to find his niche, but he will have to outplay Watson for an increased role.
Another notable off-season move Orlando made this summer was the Moe Harkless trade. They shipped Harkless to the Portland Trail Blazers for a 2020 protected second-round pick. After a few seasons of disappointment, Orlando has finally abandoned the idea of developing Harkless. It has been unfortunate, but the Magic has found Harkless’ alternative in rookie Mario Hezonja, who promises to be something special.
There weren’t many off-season moves made by the Magic, but it wasn’t necessary. They made an excellent draft choice and, most importantly, kept Tobias Harris intact and will proceed with their rebuilding project by developing young talent.
Off-Season Grade: B-