This is a long fall for Cole Anthony, who ranks top five on my board. He entered the season as a hot topic in the No. 1 conversation, but quickly faded due to injuries and inconsistency. His shooting percentages were not great at UNC, but Anthony’s quick-twitch athleticism, scoring upside, and pedigree leave a lot to like.
The Magic technically have a “point guard of the future” in Markelle Fultz. But there’s still real concern over Fultz’s jumper, and if it doesn’t develop further, his ceiling is capped. It couldn’t hurt to add some insurance. Plus, Fultz is long and athletic enough to defend two-guards. He could easily pair with Anthony, who’s a good enough shooter to play off-ball.
Anthony needs to develop the playmaking side of his game more. He’s electric as a pull-up shooter, but he’s not the passer some of his counterparts in this class are. Another reason to like the Fultz pairing. Anthony can also defend well when he’s engaged, and despite his small stature, he’s built strong. This is a steal for Orlando.