2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks land difference-maker, Victor Wembanyama heads East

11. Orlando Magic (via Bulls) select Cason Wallace

The Magic will have a second lottery selection unless the Bulls jump into the top four on May 16. Chicago has an 8.5 percent chance to keep their pick with a 1.8 percent shot at getting the number one overall selection. The Magic already selected Ausar Thompson with the sixth pick in this mock draft, and they are loaded with young talent in the frontcourt. Will Orlando prioritize another wing or a point guard with this pick?

Wallace is a 6’4 combo guard that showed plenty of flashes during his lone season at Kentucky. The 19-year-old averaged 11.7 points, 4.3 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in 32.2 minutes per game while shooting 44.6 percent from the field and 34.6 percent on his 3-point tries.

Wallace would not be the first Kentucky guard that pops after being drafted. Devin Booker, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Tyrese Maxey, Tyler Herro, and Malik Monk were all picked outside the top ten since 2015 and have all blossomed into key players on their respective teams. Could Wallace be the next name on that list?

The 19-year-old is a fantastic defender, despite being just 6’4. He makes plays off the ball and is outstanding at the point of attack. Wallace has drawn plenty of Jrue Holiday comps during the pre-draft process, and he is an outstanding spot-up shooter to go with his stellar defense.

Do not be surprised to see Cason Wallace break out at the next level. The talented guard plays hard and keeps getting better. If his jumper and playmaking continue to improve, Wallace has All-Star potential. The Magic will be ecstatic if he is still on the board for their second first-round pick.