Orlando Magic: Who deserves to start in the backcourt this season?

After obtaining the first overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, the Orlando Magic have officially finished their rebuild for the future. Next season, the Magic will be in the mix for a playoff spot, hoping to make a run in the postseason. In addition, several young stars on the Magic will gain the quality experience needed for the years ahead.

Through recent years, Orlando has constantly been in the draft lottery, hoping to select a franchise-altering star. Although players like Jonathan Isaac and Mo Bamba have faced troubles early on in their careers, the Magic have made several quality draft selections helping them prosper over time. Furthermore, the Magic have one of the most well-rounded backcourts in the NBA.

Orlando has a handful of guards who each have unique skill sets. Former fifth overall pick, Jalen Suggs can contribute on both ends of the floor, while rising star Cole Anthony can be seen as the focal point of the offense. Guards Markelle Fultz and R.J. Hampton can create opportunities for their teammates, as well as make a strong impact on the defensive end.

As training camp for next season is approaching, head coach Jamahl Mosley has an important decision to make. Although the Orlando Magic may have some of the best talents at the guard position, only two can be named to the starting five. Mosley must decide which two guards possess the necessary attributes needed to compete with some of the best teams in the NBA.

Having a versatile backcourt will be essential for the Orlando Magic.

Currently, the Orlando Magic have four different point guards who could start on almost any team in the NBA. The team’s starting backcourt must consist of high-volume scoring, top-tier perimeter defense and efficient playmaking abilities. Additionally, these two guards must compliment each other when playing together.

One guard who is secured into the starting five is Cole Anthony. As he enters his third season, Anthony’s high-end scoring abilities will be needed if the Orlando Magic are aiming for a playoff spot. Although Anthony’s shooting efficiencies are sub-par, he is a great playmaker and can be utilized as the primary ball-handler. This can take the pressure away from the rest of the offense, leading to more scoring opportunities.

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Despite Anthony’s premier scoring abilities, he may be seen as a target on defense. This will require Mosley to start a guard who can defend at a high level. Suggs is the perfect man for the job. As Suggs continues to develop his offensive game, he is arguably the best defensive guard on the roster. Moreover, Suggs is also a phenomenal playmaker. This can ease the load on Anthony, as he will have numerous responsibilities on the scoring end.

When playing together, Anthony and Suggs are extremely productive. These two generate a defensive rating of 106.4, an assist percentage of 60.6, and a “player impact estimate” of 48.6. These numbers are similar to some of the best backcourts in the NBA.

Having Anthony and Suggs in the starting lineup would leave Fultz and Hampton to come off the bench. Both Fultz and Hampton will be expected to provide an instant spark, keeping the Orlando Magic under control.

With these lineups, the Magic will certainly be in contention for a playoff spot. With the proper amount of veteran experience and young talent, it will not be long before Orlando constructs one of the best seasons in franchise history.