Magic 'Rebuilding' with NBA Draft Picks
Friday, June 27, 2014
By: Brendan Byrne

June 27, 2014 | WMFE, Orlando - The Orlando Magic picked up two young players in the first round of the NBA's 2014 draft at the Barclay Center in Brooklyn New York Thursday.

With the fourth and twelfth pick overall, the Magic drafted Aaron Gordon, a 6'9" power forward out of Arizona and traded for 6'4" point guard Elfrid Payton out of Lousianna - La Fayette.

BasketballInsiders.com writer Cody Taylor says this season is crucial for the team, which has struggled since Dwight Howard left in 2012.

“This season is a critical point in the Magic’s rebuilding area after Dwight Howard because if they have another 20 to 25 win season then they are going to start losing some of the fan's trust and support,” says Taylor. 

The last time the Magic saw the playoffs was the 2011-2012 season, which was Dwight Howard’s last with the organization.

It’s hoped Gordon will boost the Magic’s defense, while rising star Payton is said to be a much-needed shooter on the offense.