The Magic taking Ziaire Williams at No. 8 remains a real possibility, Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report hears (Twitter link).
The organization had Williams in for two pre-draft workouts. In addition to Orlando, the Stanford wing has worked out for the Rockets, Spurs, Kings, and Knicks among other teams.
Orlando has two selections in the lottery, owning the No. 5 overall pick in addition to No. 8—a spot where the draft could get chaotic. The Magic are widely expected to take Florida State’s Scottie Barnes at No. 5 provided he remains on the board at that time (sources told FortyEightMinutes last week that the Raptors were strongly considering the forward at No. 4).
More NBA Draft Rumors
- The Wizards continue to look for a second-round pick in the draft, GM Tommy Sheppard told FortyEightMinutes and other media on Wednesday. When asked about moving up or down from the No. 15 overall selection, Sheppard replied: “I like where we’re at.”
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The Pelicans traded down to No. 17 but they should be able to get a player of their liking at that spot. Sam Vecenie of The Athletic reports that New Orleans is targeting one of the “older” shooters in the draft, meaning someone like Corey Kispert, Trey Murphy, and Chris Duarte. Yet, Andrew Lopez of ESPN.com hears that the team may end up trading further back, using the No. 17 pick to acquire more veteran help.
- The Raptors are high on Evan Mobley, though it’s unlikely they’ll be able to draft the USC big man unless they trade up to No. 3. Toronto is one of the teams that has had conversations with Cleveland about the selection, though as Vecenie notes (same piece), it’s unlikely that the franchise will meet the Cavaliers’ asking price.
- The Nets are another New York team looking to move up in the draft, as they’re dangling Landry Shamet and the 27th pick to try and make that happen, according to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report. The Nets have also listened to offers for DeAndre Jordan.
- The Thunder offered Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and No. 6 overall pick to the Pistons for the chance to draft Cade Cunningham, but Detroit declined, according to Matt Babcock of BasketballNews.com.
