The Orlando Magic are known as a franchise loaded with young talent. Stars such as Paolo Banchero, Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner have developed with Orlando as All-Star-level players. Now, their two newest young stars are making their mark as regular fixtures in the rotation.
Bleacher Report released an article, grading every NBA team’s rookie class so far this season. The Magic are lucky enough to have two notable rookies in their rotation, Jase Richardson and Noah Penda. While they began the season strong, their performances have come back down to Earth. The two of them have earned the Magic a “C+” grade.
"Jase Richardson's best performance of the season may come on Saturday night, as he's set to perform in the Slam Dunk Contest," the article wrote. "Just 6'1" but with a 38" vertical, we could see some impressive slams from Richardson in what's been a disappointing rookie year overall. The Orlando Magic are again a mess offensively and Richardson (5.1 points, 1.4 assists, 36.4 percent from three) has only contributed slightly in a crowded backcourt. Noah Penda has been a rotation member for most of the last two months, scoring in double figures five times over this stretch. Neither has made a great impact yet, although we'd like to see more."
Richardson, the No. 25 selection in the draft, was originally viewed as one of the biggest steals of the first round this past offseason. He started the season off well despite not earning a notable amount of playing time due to the guard depth in the rotation. Now, with Tyus Jones dealt at the trade deadline, Richardson has earned more minutes but with the increase in playing time has come a decrease in efficiency. He is shooting 47 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range. Those numbers are not bad for a rookie.
The Magic's other rookie, Penda, has flashed in his role at times this season. He is averaging 4.8 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists while shooting 43.5 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from three-point range. Both players have shown flashes of potential and it's very early in both careers. Hopefully, they earn more playing time this season and can prove their worth in the rotation for the foreseeable future.
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