The Orlando Magic have had a tough beginning to the new year. With the month nearing an end, the team only has three wins. Only one of those has come without Markelle Fultz. Along with the Fultz injury, the Magic have also had other injuries to key rotation players. However, the return of Michael Carter-Williams could be just what the Magic need.
I know, it is unbelievable to think the team needs Carter-Williams in the lineup. His importance is hard to quantify. He is shooting 34.1% from the field and a robust 8.3% from three-point range. However, he has only played in seven games for the team.
In Orlando, Carter-Williams has earned the trust of head coach Steve Clifford. Although the results are sometimes iffy, Clifford keeps playing him. There is a reason why he is in his third season with the Orlando Magic. He has also averaged at least 18 minutes per game as a reserve in his time with the team.
Michael Carter-Williams struggles to shoot, but there is one thing he does well
Since Steve Clifford took over as head coach, defense has been part of the team’s identity. In the first two seasons, the team ranked no lower than 14th in defensive efficiency. This season the team has slumped and ranks 27th. The lack of defensive intensity has shown in the team’s record. They’ve even given up 120 plus points six times this month.
Though he has faults, Michael Carter-Williams does provide defense for the Orlando Magic. His defensive intensity is one thing Steve Clifford always appreciates. He also has the size and length to play multiple positions. Listed as 6’5” Carter-Williams can play anywhere on the wing for the Magic. His length often bothers opposing players more than the stat sheets would indicate.
The return of Michael Carter-Williams would help the team’s depth
Getting Carter-Williams back into the lineup would also help the Magic with the point guard rotation. While the team deployed Aaron Gordon to help with ball-handling behind Cole Anthony, a true backup would be more beneficial. The team does use Jordan Bone, but clearly, he is not completely trusted. The results with Gordon as the initiator of the offense have been better than expected. He also has struggled in games where the team has been blown out. This includes losses to Sacramento (121-107) and Boston (124-97).
Michael Carter-Williams is not a perfect solution, but the Magic could use him right now. He is a good defender and rebounder at the guard and wing position. He could also help provide minutes that should be going to other players right now. He shouldn’t replace Cole Anthony in the starting lineup, but he could be a boost for the second unit. While his shooting is erratic at best, the other features are more than enough for the Magic team.
Follow me @blackwoodblogg1 on Twitter and check out the Belly Up Basketball page for all the latest from the NBA.
