OKC Thunder: Josh Giddey throws his hat in ROY race

No 5 – Franz Wagner – Orlando Magic

Although Jalen Suggs was the player selected fifth by the Orlando Magic it’s the prospect they selected eighth who is making the bigger impact. Franz Wagner who is playing with his brother in Orlando is living up to the expectations that witnessed his rise from a late first-round pick up to the lottery.

Through two weeks of play, the Magic rookie is doing a bit on both sides of the court. Although the Magic struggles to score Wagner offers new head coach Jamahl Mosley with options at the forward position.

The Magic have a number of young bigs to work develop including Mo Bamba, Wendell Carter Jr., and Jonathan Isaacs when he returns from injury. At 6’9 Wagner is playing the small forward role but is adaptable to play the power forward position which makes him a viable versatile option for Mosley.

Through two weeks Wagner is averaging 13.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.0 steal per game. He’s scored in double-figures in every single outing with a high of 19 points versus the Pistons.

His shooting efficiency stands out and not because he’s connecting with 49.4 percent from the field. Rather it’s his robust 43.8 percent from the perimeter efficiency on 4.6 attempts per game which resonates.