Despite aiming to win the Eastern Conference, the Orlando Magic face the task of developing rookies Jase Richardson and Noah Penda. Investing in their growth is crucial, especially with the team lacking first-round draft capital next season after the blockbuster Desmond Bane trade.
The Magic traded the No. 16 pick as part of the package for Bane, a move that signaled their commitment to winning now. Still, they used a later first-round pick on Richardson, a pure shot creator who slipped in the draft because of concerns about his frame and playmaking.
In the next round, the Magic invested even more resources, trading four second-round picks to move up and select the highly talented defensive forward Noah Penda. While Orlando expects to contend for the Finals this season, both Richardson and Penda could play meaningful roles over the course of a long regular season. After strong showings in Summer League, they’ve already made a strong impression on coach Jamahl Mosley.
“I really think it's always about developing,” Mosley said during media day. “I've just talked to some guys over there, just the ability to always develop. And it's always it's going to be in different stages. And so Jase is going to be at a different development than Paolo [Banchero], but the goal of the team is, how do you get better? How do you strive to put yourself in the best position to win a championship? And each guy is on a different path, but you're going to always develop these guys to become the best version of themselves. I will always stand on that, because I think that's why these guys join this league. That's why we play this game, to become the best version of yourself on this court to compete against the best."
Richardson showcased his scoring ability in Summer League, flashing athletic finishes at the rim and confident pull-up jumpers from mid-range. Penda, meanwhile, displayed the defensive versatility that fits Mosley’s system, switching seamlessly from guarding perimeter players to battling centers inside.
“We know each guy has their role and responsibility on this team,” Mosley added. “But for Jase, a young man who's coming in as a rookie, learn the system first. Understand when you're playing the point when understand when you're playing the two. Know who you're on the floor with when it's time to distribute, when it's time to go make plays and score. He's got an unbelievable basketball IQ, he's fast as heck, so he can push the pace of what we're talking about, but he's a willing and wanting learner. He asked all the right questions. He's under Tyus [Jones] and figuring out what he can do from an 11-year vet, and I think that's going to be great for him this year."
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