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Orlando Magic Starting Five Breakdown: Elfrid Payton

By Luke Duffy

Apr 10, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) points from the court against the Toronto Raptors during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 10, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) points from the court against the Toronto Raptors during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 10, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) drives to the basket as Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Toronto Raptors defeated the Orlando Magic 101-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 10, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) drives to the basket as Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Toronto Raptors defeated the Orlando Magic 101-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

The Key Statistic

Last season Payton posted a Player Efficiency Rating of 13.87. The league average in this category is 15. In year two, that number has to improve, even to the point where it gets over that 15 mark. As a point guard, Payton has to be able to make fewer mistakes while also knowing when to get others involved while also picking his moments as well. It’s a tough ask, but it’s something that doesn’t look beyond him.

He needs to be a bigger influence on both ends of the floor, although being a lockdown defender could ultimately be his calling card here. This team is hardly an offensive force, but players like Victor Oladipo, Nikola Vucevic, Tobias Harris and even Hezonja will look after the bulk of the scoring. If Payton can become an improved defender, that rating of his, which wasn’t great in year one, will only head north.

Next: Payton Key To Future Success For Pinstriped Blue

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