2017 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Pre-Draft

Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
7 of 32
Philadelphia 76ers
Mar 19, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Jayson Tatum (0) reacts after a three point basket during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

I really don’t know what direction the Orlando Magic wants to go in this draft. With former Milwaukee Buck’s General Manager, John Hammond, now in charge I wouldn’t be surprised if the Magic threw a curve ball and selected a player that wasn’t on anybody’s radar. He surprised everyone when he selected projects in Giannis Antetokounmpo and Thon Maker, both picks looks as if they have panned out.

More from The Sixer Sense

I don’t think the Magic will select a point guard here, it’s too early to give up on Elfrid Payton in my opinion. Dennis Smith Jr. will be very enticing but I think they should give Payton more shooters and scorers and see how he fares before giving up on him.

Jayson Tatum offers just that. He gives the Magic a go-to scorer, something the Magic haven’t had for some time. Tatum’s ability to score efficiently in the mid-range is his most impressive attribute. Some see Tatum as the most polished player in this draft. After the utter failure of Mario Hezonja, Tatum must be the pick here.

Previous Mock Draft Ranking: 4