[high floorParticipant]

The Orlando Magic are at a very interesting phase in their franchise history. Until last season, i’ve been a former GM Rob Hennigan advocate… as he seemed patient / deliberate in his approach to rebuilding with defense-first players post Dwight Howard. But last year… his horrendous win now moves and inability to find 2-way stars in previous years drafts cost him his job. 

Now you bring in former Bucks GM John Hammond, and hire basketball ‘lifer’ Jeff Weltman as President of Basketball Operations to infuse a ton of experience to the front office. Solid decisions IMO. But that’s just the beginning of what seems to be a long road to relevence for this team.

Beginning with the draft, I think Orlando absolutely has to draft best player available regardless of positional need. And at #6, my hope is that they select NC State’s Dennis Smith Jr. I’ve long been a Smith Jr advocate, and I think he has a very high upside if available at this selection. His knocks (i.e attitude, coachability, injury concerns) I don’t feel are enough to pass on him by the #6 slot. Go for the upside Orlando. At their #25 pick, I’m less particular and would be fine with either Rabb/Wilson/Giles if available. They should aim for young help within the front court.

What does this mean for Elfrid Payton? I think the Magic need to the bite bullet hard, and move him this offseason at a discount. Hennigan was a huge supporter of Payton, as he imfamously gave up an additional future 1st round lottery pick to attain him in 2014, and former coach Scott Skiles and him consistently debated Payton’s future as to whether or not he was starting PG or purely a back-up. I’ve seen enough now to know that Payton cannot play big minutes, on a team that does not have 4 above average shooters on the floor, and win with regularity. So what teams fit that criteria, and needs a high level back-up?? The Cavs. Since Cleveland is in win-now mode, I would offer Elfrid Payton for their 2018 first round pick (likely 22-27 range) and see what happens. Payton would be plenty motivated to play well in a contract season, plus he would have all kinds of shooters at his disposal to kick-out to. To Elfrid’s credit, he is pretty good at getting into the paint.

Orlando needs to realize that they will not be getting a big return for Payton, and a first round pick in the 20’s should be enough for them to make a move. Trade Payton, draft Smith Jr, and rebuild with players that can actually shoot and make plays off the dribble. Quit trying to accelerate the rebuild with crappy FA signings that take away valuable minutes from their young players.

[HobbyOGParticipant]

Too harsh on Payton. He’s numbers have increased each year. You guys got alot of shooting/small forwards who can’t create. Your players are too one dimensional with a lack of strength in thier game. Also your D sucks. And what happen to Mario??? He was suppose to be the next great thing. Payton gets too much of the blame. 

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