:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/14606879/164555899.0.jpg)
NBA teams continue to prepare for the 2013 Draft, set for June 27th, and Chad Ford of ESPN Insider reports that the Cleveland Cavaliers may not have settled on Kentucky center Nerlens Noel as the first overall pick. "The Cavs' desire for Noel could be waning," Ford says, which is why Indiana shooting guard Victor Oladipo "has moved into the Cavs' conversation for the No. 1 pick."
This development certainly affects the Orlando Magic, picking second overall, as they are giving "heavy consideration" to Oladipo with that pick.
Orlando is, of course, also doing its due diligence with other prospects at the top of the Draft. According to Ford, Georgetown forward Otto Porter and Indiana center Cody Zeller will work out with the Magic in the coming days. Ford also lists the Magic as one of "the most plausible destinations" for Kansas shooting guard Ben McLemore. The sweet-shooting freshman has slid down Ford's Big Board because of his decision not to take part in head-to-head workouts. "There is no consensus in this draft," one general manager told Ford. "He's got to come and earn it."
Orlando Pinstriped Post readers voted McLemore atop the Community Draft Board, with Noel second and Oladipo third.
Coming off a 62-loss season and with one of the weakest rosters in the NBA, the Magic have myriad needs to address in the offseason. Orlando's pick, no matter who it is, will thus have an opportunity to contribute immediately.
Looking for Orlando Magic tickets? Orlando Pinstriped Post has you covered. We invite you to follow Orlando Pinstriped Post on Twitter and like Orlando Pinstriped Post on Facebook.