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The future of the Orlando Magic will change at the NBA Draft

ByLoyal Ricks Jr|
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 30: The Orlando Magic logo on their uniform during the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on March 30, 2022 in Washington, DC. 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 G Fiume/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 30: The Orlando Magic logo on their uniform during the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on March 30, 2022 in Washington, DC. 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 G Fiume/Getty Images)
Orlando Magic, NBA Draft
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 21: Jabari Smith visits the Empire State Building on June 21, 2022 in New York City, The future of the Orlando Magic will change at the NBA Draft. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust)

The 2022 NBA Draft class is filled with talent that will take the court next season. As players anticipate their final landing spot, how will the Orlando Magic use their first overall pick?

Working to become an NBA draft prospect begins at an early age. Discipline, determination, and resilience are essential throughout each journey. On Thursday, June 23rd, the draft class of 2022 will see their dreams become a reality. As teams look to add depth to their rosters, the league’s future stars are for hoping for a chance.

The future of the Orlando Magic is riding on their first-overall pick selection

While Stephen Curry competed for his fourth title, owners in the association spent the offseason game-planning for the foreseeable future. Peter Guber and the Magic front office are excited about the opportunity to grow their team. Orlando’s participation in the association’s draft lottery won the team rights to the first selection for the fourth time in the team’s history.

Obtaining the No.1 pick has been bittersweet for the Magic’s front office. The chance to improve the team’s roster could not cast out the shadow of a hideous performance last season. Orlando’s 22 wins ranked second-worst in the league’s standings – two more than the Houston Rockets.

Time off the hardwood has presented Orlando’s front office to reevaluate their game plan. If the Magic use their position in the draft wisely, they could walk away with another historic first pick.

Finding the right pick has come easy for the Magic in the past. Dwight Howard, Chris Webber, and Shaquille O’Neal started their professional careers as number one selections by the Magic. Eighteen years later, Orlando’s front office has another chance to invest in the future face of the franchise.

Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero, and Jabari Smith will have an opportunity to be a historic draft trio atop the 2022 NBA Draft. After explosive freshman seasons, these prospects have dominated mock draft conversations. Height, scoring ability, and playmaking ability are traits that scouts admire when watching each player perform. Making the right decision will benefit the Magic for years to come.

A bust will hinder the team’s progress.

Surrounding players like Cole Anthony, Franz Wagner, and Wendell Carter Jr. with hungry talent could give the Magic enough energy to have a more competitive season. As the draft draws closer, speculation about the first pick has increased. Auburn’s Jabri Smith Jr. has surfaced as the favorite to become the first pick of the draft. His 16.9 points and 7.4 rebounds per game average have helped him standout among his peers.

Jamahl Mosley and the Orlando Magic are looking forward to improving their team. Their position at the top of the draft gives the team first dibs at the upcoming class, which is filled with length and scoring ability. The Magic will feel the pressure of making the right decision Thursday night. If the Magic play their cards right, they could improve their team for upcoming seasons.

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