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Former NBA Lottery Pick Could Fit With Orlando Magic

Former NBA Lottery Pick Could Fit With Orlando Magic

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, where young teams like the Orlando Magic are constantly on the hunt for pieces that can elevate their roster without disrupting their core identity, opportunities often arise from unexpected places. The Magic, fresh off a season that saw them make a surprising playoff push, are building around a foundation of versatile, high-upside talent. Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs form the nucleus of a squad that's equal parts gritty and promising, but depth—particularly in the frontcourt and on the wings—remains a key area for improvement. Enter the intriguing possibility of adding a former lottery pick whose career has taken a winding path but whose skill set aligns intriguingly with what Orlando needs.

The player in question is none other than James Wiseman, the towering center who was selected second overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 2020 NBA Draft. At the time, Wiseman was heralded as a generational big man prospect, drawing comparisons to the likes of Chris Bosh and even a young Anthony Davis for his blend of size, athleticism, and perimeter skills. Standing at 7 feet with a wingspan that seems to stretch across the court, Wiseman entered the league with immense hype after a brief but tantalizing stint at Memphis, where injuries and eligibility issues limited him to just three college games. Yet, his raw potential was undeniable: a fluid athlete who could run the floor, protect the rim, and even step out to knock down jumpers.

Wiseman's NBA journey, however, has been anything but straightforward. His rookie season with the Warriors was marred by a meniscus injury that sidelined him for significant stretches, and upon return, he struggled to find consistent minutes in a Golden State system that prioritized small-ball lineups and veteran savvy over developmental projects. The Warriors, in their pursuit of immediate contention, traded Wiseman to the Detroit Pistons midway through the 2022-23 season as part of a multi-team deal that brought in Gary Payton II. In Detroit, Wiseman showed flashes of brilliance—moments where his athleticism shone through in transition dunks and blocked shots—but inconsistency plagued him. Turnovers, defensive lapses, and an inability to fully adapt to the NBA's pace left him on the fringes of the rotation. By the end of his time with the Pistons, Wiseman had become a free agent, searching for a fresh start.

This is where the Orlando Magic could come into play. The Magic's front office, led by Jeff Weltman, has a track record of taking calculated risks on high-pedigree players who need a change of scenery. Look no further than Markelle Fultz, another former top pick who revitalized his career in Orlando after early struggles in Philadelphia. The Magic's system under head coach Jamahl Mosley emphasizes player development, defensive versatility, and a team-first mentality—elements that could be the perfect tonic for Wiseman's career. Orlando's frontcourt is anchored by Wendell Carter Jr. and the emerging Banchero, but adding Wiseman could provide much-needed depth and a different dimension. Imagine Wiseman as a backup big who spells Carter, allowing the Magic to maintain size and rim protection without sacrificing mobility.

One of the most compelling aspects of Wiseman's potential fit is his offensive upside. In limited action, he's demonstrated an ability to space the floor with a developing jump shot, something the Magic could use to open driving lanes for their slashers like Wagner and Suggs. Defensively, Wiseman's length and shot-blocking instincts could bolster Orlando's already stingy unit, which ranked among the league's best last season. Mosley's coaching staff has excelled at integrating young talent, fostering an environment where players like Jonathan Isaac have overcome injuries to contribute meaningfully. Wiseman, at just 23 years old, still has plenty of runway to grow, and the Magic's patient approach could allow him to do so without the pressure of being "the guy."

Of course, there are risks involved. Wiseman's injury history is a red flag, and his lack of polish—particularly in pick-and-roll defense and decision-making—means he'd need time to acclimate. The Magic aren't in a position to overhaul their roster dramatically; they're building sustainably, often through the draft and shrewd free-agent signings. Signing Wiseman to a short-term, prove-it deal—perhaps a one-year contract with a team option—would be low-risk, high-reward. It aligns with Orlando's philosophy of betting on talent that others have overlooked. If it works, Wiseman could become a key rotational piece, much like how Moritz Wagner has carved out a role as an energetic bench contributor.

Broader context adds layers to this potential move. The NBA's current meta favors bigs who can switch on defense and contribute offensively beyond the paint. Wiseman, with his tools, fits that mold if developed properly. Compare him to other former lottery picks who've found new life elsewhere: Deandre Ayton in Portland, or even Marvin Bagley III bouncing around before settling in. Orlando's culture, emphasized by team president Alex Martins, prioritizes character and work ethic, qualities Wiseman has shown in interviews and workouts. He's spoken publicly about his desire to learn and improve, acknowledging past setbacks as learning experiences.

From a strategic standpoint, the Magic are in a sweet spot. With cap space and a young core, they can afford to experiment. The Eastern Conference is competitive, but Orlando's playoff appearance last year proved they're ahead of schedule. Adding Wiseman wouldn't be about immediate stardom but about depth for the long haul. Picture lineups where Wiseman pairs with Banchero in twin-tower sets, overwhelming opponents with size, or running alongside Suggs in transition for easy buckets. It's a fit that makes sense on paper and could pay dividends if the intangibles align.

Critics might argue that Wiseman's ceiling has lowered since his draft night, but that's precisely why he's available. The Magic have succeeded by zigging when others zag—drafting Banchero over Chet Holmgren, for instance—and this could be another such move. In conversations with league insiders, there's optimism that a structured environment like Orlando's could unlock Wiseman's potential. He's worked on his body and skills in the offseason, focusing on footwork and perimeter defense, areas that Mosley could refine further.

Ultimately, whether Wiseman ends up in a Magic uniform remains to be seen. Free agency is fluid, and other teams—perhaps rebuilding squads like the Wizards or Hornets—could vie for his services. But for Orlando, pursuing him represents the kind of smart, forward-thinking acquisition that has defined their rebuild. It's not about chasing stars; it's about assembling a cohesive unit that grows together. If Wiseman clicks, he could be the missing piece that propels the Magic from playoff hopefuls to legitimate contenders. In the NBA, second chances often lead to the most compelling stories, and Wiseman's could be written in Orlando.

As the offseason unfolds, keep an eye on this storyline. The Magic are methodical, but they're also opportunistic. A former lottery pick like Wiseman, with his blend of size, skill, and untapped potential, could be the perfect addition to a team on the rise. It's a reminder that in basketball, as in life, timing and fit are everything. (Word count: 1,048)

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[ https://www.si.com/nba/magic/former-nba-lottery-pick-could-fit-with-orlando-magic-01k0qcqq90f9 ]