Orlando Magic: 4 most intriguing players for 2018-19
By Luke Duffy
4. Wesley Iwundu
We begin with small forward Wesley Iwundu, who had an underwhelming rookie season in Orlando, spending some time with their G League affiliate, the Lakeland Magic.
What’s worrisome for Iwundu is how he failed to seriously break into the rotation (he averaged 16.5 minutes per game, appearing in 62 contests) despite the Magic needing help in many areas. Doing so this coming season will only be more difficult, as they look better on paper.
It will still be interesting to see what Iwundu can bring to the table, and he actually has a lot of things going for him to help him see more minutes. The first is a new head coach in Steve Clifford, who may take a shine to a player who certainly gives his all on the court.
Forgot to mention Wesley Iwundu's perimeter defense during the game. He's very underrated out there. He hustles, and uses his length well.
— The Lando (@TheLando__) October 8, 2017
Indeed Iwundu saw some time with the second unit during their preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers. This may ultimately mean nothing, but to know he is in the mind of Clifford at least at this point is encouraging.
Iwundu also has the skill-set that would fit well next to Bamba and Isaac, on the defensive end at least. Being a top team on this end should be the goal, and Iwundu has the tools to help this identity continue to grow.
He has the versatility to play across a couple of positions on the court, but also is in a nice position because there aren’t many others players on the roster that are like him. That could be the real key to achieving a bigger role with the Magic.
If nothing else, any production they can get from Iwundu at all would be a bonus, which makes him an intriguing candidate. He has the potential to be useful in a couple of areas, and there is little expectation on him to seriously crack the rotation. Let’s see what he can do.