As the Orlando Magic gear up for the NBA draft, speculation is swirling about who they might take. Most recently, the Magic have been linked to Arizona forward Carter Bryant. In a new mock draft, Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman projected Orlando taking the 19-year-old with the 16th pick.
"Despite Carter Bryant's limited role, production and creation, there will be first-round interest in an athletic, 6'8" wing with clear shotmaking ability and defensive quickness/tools," Wasserman wrote.
"Teams may have to use their imaginations to picture serious upside, but Bryant has an NBA foundation and coveted archetype," he added.
A former McDonald's All-American and top-20 recruit, Bryant averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds with one block in 37 games for the Wildcats. He also converted on 37.1 percent of his 3-point attempts, a promising attribute for Orlando, which is desperate for consistent perimeter shooting.
Listed at 6-foot-6.5 barefoot and weighing 214.8 pounds, Bryant also recorded a nearly seven-foot wingspan at the NBA Draft combine on Monday. Bryant's measurements indicate a strong build that will translate well to the NBA.
Arizona’s Carter Bryant’s official measurements from the NBA Draft Combine:
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 12, 2025
6’6 ½ barefoot, 214.8 lbs with a 6’11 ¾" wingspan and 8’10” standing reach pic.twitter.com/wHJtB4S996
Bryant's athleticism was also displayed during the combine, as he recorded one of the highest vertical leaps at 39.5 inches.
39 1/2 inch max vertical leap for Arizona's Carter Bryant at the NBA draft combine, best jump so far early on. pic.twitter.com/C4WGqZ55q1
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 13, 2025
The Magic's roster is plentiful at the forward position, especially from a youth standpoint, with Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Tristan da Silva and others. Moreover, Orlando may use its first-round picks to acquire a proven veteran in a trade to help the team contend now. If the organization does take a chance on Bryant, it's getting a player who fits the mold.
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