NBA Draft 2013: Orlando Magic select Victor Oladipo with No. 2 pick

Oladipo saw his stock rise throughout the pre-draft process and passed up Ben McLemore as the first shooting guard taken. There were rumors that Oladipo would get selected by the Magic, but this is somewhat of a surprise considering Nerlens Noel was still on the board.

Oladipo is a defensive-minded perimeter player who has the tools to thrive as a stopper in the NBA. His quickness, length and athleticism are his best attributes, and he put the finer points of his game together at Indiana in his junior season. The 6’4 guard raised his stock considerably in 2012-13, as he posted 13.6 points, 6.3 rebounds. 2.2 steals and 2.1 assists per game for the Hoosiers. He also improved his perimeter shot, connecting on nearly 60 percent of his field goal attempts, including 44.1 percent from beyond the arc.

However, Oladipo is still an extremely limited ballhandler and playmaker, particularly for someone so highly rated. Most of his high-percentage buckets came in transition as a Hoosier, so he’ll need to prove he can find good looks in a halfcourt offense in the NBA to be more effective offensively. The improved shot he displayed as a junior gives hope he can continue to make adjustments, but his immediate role in an NBA offense will likely be minimal.

The Magic made a commitment to defense by selecting Oladipo as their shooting guard of the future. The Magic finished 25th in the league in defensive efficiency, and the athletic Oladipo will help change the defensive disposition of the Magic from Day 1. While his height (6’4) may be a concern at the off-guard position, Oladipo has the physical tools and length with a 6’9 wingspan to keep up with bigger guards.

Oladipo must continue developing his perimeter shot to become a consistent offensive threat in the NBA, but he should be a valuable asset for the Magic regardless as they rebuild. Oladipo went through a rebuilding process during his three years at Indiana and emerged as a strong leader, which adds to his NBA-ready athleticism.

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