Magic Adds to Deep PF Room with Tristan da Silva’s Pick: Instant Reaction and Analysis

The Orlando Magic knew they had to succeed with the No. 18 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, bringing in a young point guard to join a core led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner as they trailed the rest of the Eastern competition. Conference.

Rather than adding to a backcourt that featured names like Anthony Black and the ever-improving Cole Anthony, the Magic decided to add a power forward who could help complement Banchero. With the 18th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Magic selected Colorado power forward Tristan da Silva.

The Magic clearly wanted a player who could improve his deep shooting while also giving some extra pop to their bench, and da Silva should be able to check both of those boxes early in his professional career.

Orlando likes to recruit great athletes who can eventually grow into their bodies, which makes da Silva the next project for Jamahl Mosley and his team.

Despite playing on the same team as No. 10 pick Cody Williams, da Silva outscored Williams by averaging 16.0 points per game. Da Silva has been a complete scorer on all three levels, making nearly half of his shots and 39% of his 3-point attempts at consistent volume.

In his first year, da Silva will likely rely on his smooth shooting and defensive energy to make an impact. Although he won’t be an all-defensive player, da Silva can effectively lock down wings on the perimeter while handling himself in the paint. With a little muscle, he could become even better at this.

His biggest problem right now is a lack of overall athletic ability, which could make it difficult to rely on him as a shot creator. Playing alongside experts like Banchero and Wagner in this area should help alleviate any concerns fans might have, putting da Silva in a position to help on offense as a rookie.

The Magic are in position to put together a deep playoff run, and the selection of da Silva only solidifies their desire to become a playoff contender. Orlando has built one of the deepest and youngest frontcourts in the NBA, and it will only get better with time.