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Orlando Magic: 5 predictions for the 2018-19 NBA season

By Chris Murch

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 01: Head coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic talks to Mohamed Bamba #5 during a timeout during the second quarter of the preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on October 1, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 01: Head coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic talks to Mohamed Bamba #5 during a timeout during the second quarter of the preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on October 1, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

3. Mo Bamba has an immediate impact

With Orlando, Bamba will have every opportunity to contribute early, often and be an impact player from day one. He showed his potential in the first preseason game Monday, going for 12 points, three rebounds and two assists in 17 minutes. He also showcased the outside shooting he has been working on all summer by going 2-for-2 from deep and looking confident with his stroke. This is a welcome sight for Magic fans for sure.

While he still has a way to go offensively, the positives from his first game heavily outweigh the negatives.

The one part of Bamba’s game that could use the most improvement is his frame. He is listed at 220 pounds and as a rangy seven-footer, this is frail. This was evidenced by how easily Joel Embiid (listed at 249 pounds but probably more like 270) was able to bully him inside on Monday. If Bamba can add weight, it would go a long way for his post defense and ability to back down NBA centers.

Added weight would also help with injury concerns. Bamba was the longest player ever measured at the combine this summer. With the lankiness comes a high potential for injury.

Just look at the Magic’s 2017 first round pick Jonathan Isaac last season. He’s super lanky and plays above the rim like Bamba, yet only played 27 games due to a litany of lower body (mostly ankle) injuries. Heck, he even re-sprained his right ankle in Monday’s game. If Bamba can put on muscle and weight it would go a long way in improving his game. Just look at the Greek Freak.

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