Orlando Magic: 5 takeaways from 2018 NBA Summer League
By Chris Murch
2. Isaiah Briscoe’s potential is promising
One of my favorite young players that the Magic have not named Isaac or Bamba is definitely Isaiah Briscoe. A tough 6’3” point guard out of Kentucky, Briscoe went undrafted in 2017 NBA draft and eventually landed in Estonia.
With Kalev, he averaged 18.5 points, 4.2 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game and was named VTB United League’s Young Player of the Year, given to the best player under 23 in the Estonian league. With this success, the Orlando Magic came calling and inked Briscoe to a four-year deal worth $6 million.
In three games in Vegas, Briscoe averaged 8.7 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 19.7 minutes a game. He shot 50 percent from the field and provided bullish defense on the perimeter. Briscoe brings a toughness at the point guard position for the Magic that has been absent since Jameer Nelson.
The Magic recently traded for point guard Jerian Grant from the Chicago Bulls to bolster the disparity of depth at that position but don’t be surprised if Briscoe sees some good minutes this year in place of Grant or Augustin. The Magic would not have outright signed Briscoe to a deal if they didn’t have confidence in his game and his ability to contribute right away.
I am looking forward to seeing what Briscoe can do with the second and third units this season. Along with his toughness, he also brings a good ability to finish in the lane, a developing shot and good vision as well.