Orlando Magic: 5 options for pick No. 25 in 2017 NBA Draft
By Max Holm
1. Jawun Evans, PG, Oklahoma State
Jawun Evans might be the best player available at No. 25. He only makes sense for the Magic, though, if they don’t take a point guard at No. 6. Should they not take a point guard, Evans should be near the top of their wish list on draft night.
The future of Elfrid Payton is still up in the air, but it seems as though they’ll likely hold onto him. As a defensive force, Payton can still be a productive player when surrounded by shooting. What Evans gives them is a low-quality starter who would man their backup point for cheap for four years. That’s great value late in the first round. In addition, he could eventually grow into Payton’s successor as well.
Evans is under six feet tall, but with a wingspan over 6’5″, he should hold his own against some point guards. He’s a bag of tricks with the ball in his hands and could be an incredibly valuable piece for Orlando. Just watch him leave Josh Jackson and Kansas in the dust.
In addition to being a solid athlete and lethal in the pick-and-roll, Evans has been an admirable shooter in college. He carried a high usage and assist rate at Oklahoma State, showing he has a knack for running an offense.
Next: Magic - 5 options for pick No. 6 in 2017 NBA Draft
If Orlando is looking into roster building, Evans would be a smart bet to last on a roster that’s struggled with continuity.