NBA Mock Draft: Orlando Magic take Scottie Barnes at #7
One of the players that will go higher than expected in this draft is Scottie Barnes, who is slotted to the Magic here. NBA teams are going to fall in love with his ability to switch defensively, as well as distribute the ball/facilitate an offense. Additionally, I think he is going to test as a high-level athlete.
For the Magic, the team could use various different things – but again, as stated earlier, just loading up on talent is the goal in this draft, especially with two picks in the top-10.
One of the comparisons I really like for Barnes is Justise Winslow (back when he was with the Miami Heat). Winslow was someone that could guard most perimeter players, as well as distribute for an offense. Getting both Barnes and Suggs in this draft would be an absolute win, and it would add to both the playmaking/defensive areas particularly.
Barnes is someone that wasn’t necessarily utilized to the best of his ability at Florida State – as Leonard Hamilton often asks his players to adapt to his system. Still, though, he makes sense to the Magic here, who should look to add key veterans to a very young, very promising roster.
If Cole Anthony is a hit on a draft pick (and right now, he looks the part), Orlando needs upside. Barnes brings that as well as a higher floor because of his defense.