1. Orlando Magic – Paolo Banchero
Here’s the recent draft history of the Orlando Magic:
- 2021: 5th – Jalen Suggs, 8th – Franz Wagner
- 2020: 15th – Cole Anthony
- 2019: 16th – Chuma Okeke
- 2018: 6th – Mohamed Bamba
- 2017: 6th – Jonathan Isaac
- 2015: 5th – Mario Hezonja
- 2014: 4th – Aaron Gordon
Despite holding six picks inside the top 10 since 2014, the Magic have failed to come away with a single guaranteed franchise cornerstone. Now they haven’t received any extra help from the NBA Draft lottery, but their decision-making hasn’t exactly been perfect either.
Over and over again, Orlando has elected to gamble on size, length, and athleticism rather than bona fide skills, and this method of thinking has failed them.
The Magic could continue this trend by selecting Chet Holmgren, a unicorn in terms of body type, fluidity, and length, but that would be unwise for a team that hasn’t experienced much success in the draft.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: These 4 Teams Should Look To Trade Down In 2022 NBA Draft
While Holmgren figures to be an excellent two-way player at the next level, Paolo Banchero has the safest skillset to translate to NBA stardom.
Orlando can’t afford to fumble this pick after being rewarded with the number one overall selection for the first time since 2004. Going with the safest prospect would be the prudent choice here.
