Orlando Magic: 5 options for pick No. 25 in 2017 NBA Draft
By Max Holm
3. Semi Ojeleye, SF/PF, SMU
Semi Ojeleye had a monster year at SMU, which could lead to becoming a first round pick. The AAC Player of the Year is built like a character out of Mortal Kombat and has more than enough skill to add to that.
Ojeleye can shoot it and score well from all over the court, though he’ll likely take a smaller role at the next level. It’s unclear if he’ll be a 3 or 4 at the next level, but that position-less nature may appeal to the Magic.
Aaron Gordon and Ojeleye could become a switching force on defense. The latter could also space the floor well around a non-shooter in Gordon. With Jeff Green set to be a free agent, Orlando could have some minutes free on the wing. A lineup of Elfrid Payton, Evan Fournier, Ojeleye, Gordon and Biyombo could be tantalizing. It might also be their best lineup.
Ojeleye’s on the older side, which you can look at negatively or positively. The negative would be he’s not much of a long-term prospect.
However, at 22, he’s more than ready to contribute now and would be a nice complement to the teenager Orlando likely selects in the lottery. Ojeleye put up amazing numbers at the draft combine, so if he can back those up, Orlando might have some real positional value here.