The Orlando Magic, similar to the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings, came away from the draft with an immense amount of talent. They took Michigan State guard Jase Richardson with the 25th overall pick and Noah Penda with the 32nd overall pick. Both of them possess excellent abilities and talent to be integral parts of Magic Basketball for years to come. However, each player does have questions around them that can be tested at Summer League. Let’s dive into one question for each Orlando Magic rookie participating in Summer League.
2025 NBA Summer League: 1 Question For Each Magic Rookie
Jase Richardson
Question: Will Richardson have difficulties against NBA-level talent due to his size?
The Magic land the son of former NBA player Jason Richardson and get one of the most consistent guards in the draft. Richardson can provide efficient three-level scoring and tertiary playmaking for Orlando. Even after getting Tyus Jones and Desmond Bane, the Magic still need Richardson’s scoring. At Michigan State, Richardson also demonstrated that he can play on and off the ball as well. Additionally, he showed good motor and defensive skills despite his size at six-foot-one. Overall, the Magic drafted one of the most mature and skilled guards and added him to their bench.
Richardson showed in college that he clearly has the skills to be an NBA player. Nevertheless, Richardson has one glaring question surrounding him, and that’s about his size. The big question for him is whether his frame will limit him against NBA-level talent. That drawback will cap his defensive capabilities regardless of his talent or motor. Not only that, but it will make it more difficult for him to finish at the basket. Considering the Summer League games he has played so far, Richardson’s size has not been a problem. In fact, he’s been exceptional in Las Vegas. As long as he continues to keep up his good play, Richardson will have answered the question with a resounding no.
Noah Penda
Question: Can Penda show flashes on the offensive end?
The Magic traded for Penda in the second round of the NBA Draft, and he is a quintessential Magic draft pick. Penda is a big wing whose talents lie in his defensive abilities. He is an excellent defender both on and off the ball. Furthermore, he is switchable and can defend across multiple positions. He also has a developing shot and solid off-ball cutting skills. Penda has all the skills and talent to fit into the defensive-minded culture that Orlando wants. Plus, he fits well next to their stars as well. Undoubtedly, the Magic got a talented player in Penda and someone who can be with the team for the long haul.
For all his defensive talent, Penda does have a major downside in terms of his offense. Specifically, he doesn’t have a consistent scoring game, nor is he the best in terms of shot creation. Thus, the major question for Penda is whether he can display some potential on the offensive end. He has been solid enough offensively, especially after his 17-point performance at Summer League. Still, it is imperative for Penda to become more consistent as a scorer. His lack of scoring can be a detriment to the team, so he must improve in that regard.
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