With the 2017 NBA Draft fast approaching, we break down the Orlando Magic’s five best options for the No. 6 overall pick.
On May 23, Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical dropped a #WojBomb pertaining to the Orlando Magic — one with major implications.
It was regarding the central Floridian team’s void at general manager after the firing of Rob Hennigan.
To sum up, the Magic found quite the replacement:
Sources: Milwaukee GM John Hammond has agreed to a five-year deal to become Orlando's GM. Hammond will work under president Jeff Weltman.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 23, 2017
John Hammond had been the Milwaukee Bucks’ GM since 2008, and the Executive of the Year Award recipient in 2009-10. He was also the man behind Milwaukee drafting Giannis Antetokounmpo, Malcolm Brogdon and Thon Maker, among others. Safe to say, Orlando hired a good one.
The team also hired Jeff Weltman away from the Toronto Raptors as their new president of basketball operations. Considering Toronto’s recent success, averaging 50 wins over the last four seasons, the hire was universally praised upon its announcement.
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That’s not to suggest the Magic turnaround will be an easy one to kickstart; there’s talent on the roster, sure, but massive holes to fill as well.
Thankfully, Hammond and Weltman were hired with a month to go until the 2017 NBA Draft. It’s not a totally ideal situation, but regardless, they should have enough time to figure out what Orlando needs most and which prospects to target.
Plus, the upcoming draft class has been called one of the deepest ever. And the Magic — owners of two first round picks, including No. 6 overall — will have plenty of great options to help bolster their roster.
So without further ado, here are the five most intriguing prospects for Orlando with the sixth overall selection.
Honorable mentions: Dennis Smith Jr. (fit not great), Josh Jackson (won’t be available at No. 6), Zach Collins (would be a bit of a reach if taken sixth)