25. Orlando Magic: Semi Ojeleye, SMU Mustangs
Ultimate Upside Comparison: Jae Crowder
Safe Upside Comparison: P.J. Tucker
Position: Small Forward
Age: 22 (12/5/1994)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6.75″, 241 pounds, 6’9.75″
2016-17 Slash Line: .487/.424/.785
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.1 MPG, 19.0 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, 2.1 3PM
The Orlando Magic have a number of high-quality players on the roster already, and Malik Monk would help create an offensive identity. This is still a team coached by Frank Vogel, however, and that places a fair and necessary emphasis on defense.
Thankfully, the Magic will have an opportunity to draft a small forward who can contribute on both ends of the floor at No. 25 overall: Semi Ojeleye.
Ojeleye’s upside is comparable to that of Boston Celtics small forward Jae Crowder. He’s a well-rounded offensive player with an exceptional outside shot, as well as the potential to be able to defend multiple positions at a borderline elite level.
Ojeleye didn’t always defend with the level of vigor and tenacity that Vogel will ask him to in the NBA, but there’s undeniable upside to explore.
A more cautious comparison for Ojeleye is Philadelphia 76ers small forward Robert Covington. Covington has limited creativity on the offensive end of the floor, but he ranked No. 1 amongst small forwards in Defensive RPM and is a lethal 3-point shooter.
Ojeleye is the type of prospect whom the New York Knicks would benefit from adding, but it’s the Magic that cash in on a solid building opportunity here.