Beyond the hype, a rookie forward quietly anchors defense, orchestrates offense, and impresses teammates and coaches with his crucial late-game contributions.
The Orlando Magic’s rookie spotlight has mainly been taken by first-round pick Jase Richardson, who’s showcased a strong ability to attack the rim and score at will. He’s been heavily spotlighted, and rightfully so, but another key rookie who’s shown strong flashes is forward Noah Penda, who’s developing as a key defensive anchor for the wing position and growing as an offensive playmaker.
The 6-foot-7 forward is averaging just 3.8 points and one assist, but he’s been a key contributor late into games when the starters are resting, and his presence on the court contributes to more than what can be seen on the box score.
In the recent win over the Chicago Bulls, Penda logged 11 crucial minutes and scored five points along with bringing in five rebounds in the nail-biting win. After the game, coach Jamahl Mosley met with media and shared high praise about Penda and what he was able to accomplish in limited minutes.
"It says so much about him that he continues to work every single day,” Mosley said. “Stoic face, and just continues to do what he’s supposed to do. It says a lot about the coaches who continue to work with him to prepare him for when he is called upon. He was great tonight. He and Goa did an unbelievable job on that back end."
Bane, a newly acquired leader, has also been impressed with Penda’s capabilities and what he’s been able to provide as a rookie, especially in the win over the Bulls.
"Huge,” Bane added. “That dude didn’t even know how to speak English when he got over here and he’s fitting right in. Couple hustle plays, big threes, driving closeouts — he’s truly a plug-and-play player. He’s going to compete on defense, hustle for loose balls, and keep the ball moving. Give the front office credit — that’s a great pick."
Guard Anthony Black, who’s been a major contributor in the Magic’s surge in performance, complimented Penda and the entire bench, sharing that they’re needed to come in and perform.
"Super important,” Black said. “Since I’ve been here the bench has always took pride in trying to be the best bench in the league. That’s something we’re trying to do again this year. We feel like we have the talent and it’s our responsibility to come in and change the game. Tonight we did a good job of that. Everybody off the bench was positive and contributing. We’re all trusting each other, we know our responsibilities, and we’re just trying to flip the game and bring energy whenever the first group might not have it."
Magic Keep Winning Due To One Key Reason Opponents Can’t Gameplan For
Unrelenting hustle and defensive intensity fuel the Magic's surge, overwhelming opponents with sheer effort they simply cannot outmaneuver. Click Here
Desmond Bane’s 37-Point Night Shows Why Orlando’s Big Trade Was Worth Every Pick
Desmond Bane exploded for 37 points, silencing doubters and proving Orlando's massive trade gamble paid off with championship-level acquisition. Click Here
Magic Keep Firing On All Cylinders While Backcourt Chemistry Rises
Unstoppable offense ignites Orlando. Discover how surging backcourt chemistry and breakthrough shooting fuel their dominant win streak. Click Here