Every season, there are a number of players who have expectations to take the next leap and show progression in their games. The Orlando Magic arguably have multiple players on the roster who may fit in that category. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are All-Star caliber players with room to grow, Wendell Carter Jr. may be lined up for a breakout year, also Tristan Da Silva could avoid a "sophomore slump" after a successful stint at EuroBasket and take another jump.
However, there is another Magic player that may take the biggest leap out of everyone on the roster this season: Anthony Black. The former lottery pick is coming off a decent season and showed some progression offensively. In 78 appearances, he averaged 9.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and shot 42.3 percent from the field, 31.8 percent from three-point range.
Black's efficiency took a dip compared to his rookie season after seeing an increase in offensive responsibilities given the injuries of Banchero and Wagner. However, there is always room for improvement.
Black has emerged as one of the most underrated defensive guards in the league; now the offense needs to pick up. The Magic are gunning for a title and need contributions from all its young players.
Black has a path to grow tremendously, especially under the leadership and guidance of veteran point guard Tyus Jones, who signed with the Magic this summer as a free agent. The opportunity to learn from one of the best ball-handlers in the league will benefit his development for now and the future.
In a recent episode of "Small Ball with Kenny Beecham," the sports content creator named his five "most intriguing" players for this season, and Black was the first name mentioned.
"Anthony Black is one of those guys the Orlando Magic traditionally draft," he said. "He's a tall guy, great wingspan, great defensive instincts, and Orlando Magic, that's what their whole identity is."
Beecham alluded to how Black has had a different journey compared to most lottery pick rookies. He wasn't the vocal point of the team's offense or a star in the making. The young guard has needed to find a role on the Magic and excel in it.
Black was in the same draft class as Victor Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson, and Brandon Miller.
Beecham added that perhaps Black's game could progress better as a three-and-D off-the-ball wing rather than a ball-handling guard.
The Magic have tremendous size at every position, especially in their backcourt. However, it may benefit Black's development by shifting him to a different role that could be more comfortable.
The Magic not only signed Jones, but also drafted Jase Richardson in the first round of this year's draft. They could take on ball-handling responsibilities, taking pressure off of Black's shoulders.
The Magic are relying on Black and da Silva to take another leap this season and provide a spark off the team's bench. They may also be banking on at least one of them to string together a Sixth Man of the Year campaign.
The case could be made that this season will determine Black's future with the organization. It's getting serious for the Orlando franchise.