17. Orlando Magic choose Jared McCain
The Magic have spent years trying to solve their backcourt issues in the draft. From Cole Anthony to Jalen Suggs to Anthony Black, Orlando still does not have a clear answer at point guard and needs more floor spacing. They are last in 3-pointers made this season and 24th in 3-point percentage. The Magic would love to find someone capable of handling the ball and making shots.
McCain ranked 12th in his high school class but struggled to begin his freshman season at Duke. Starting in mid-December, the 6’3 guard took off. Over his final 28 games, the 20-year-old averaged 16.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals in 34 minutes per game. He shot 48.0 percent from the field, 41.6 percent on his 3-point tries, and 89.9 percent from the free throw line.
There are questions about his defense and size. McCain is just 6’3 and not an elite athlete. He must round out his game if he wants to play significant minutes in the NBA.
McCain is one of the best shooters in this class with ball-handling and playmaking upside. He could be a find for the Magic, who have Markelle Fultz and Gary Harris headed toward free agency this summer. He fills a need and the 20-year-old could be even better with the floor spacing in the NBA.