The Orlando Magic drafted Chuma Okeke with the 16th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft but the former Auburn forward has not been around the team much since then.
That’s because the organization and Okeke have agreed to redshirt the 2019-20 season in order to rehab after suffering an ACL tear in his left knee last March against North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament.
Okeke is the only unsigned first-round pick as the two sides agreed to hold off signing his rookie-scale contract until he is ready to play again. The move allowed the Magic to keep an open roster spot available for a player that can contribute this season.
Okeke has spent much of his time rehabbing with the Magic’s G League affiliate in Lakeland, roughly one hour west of Orlando. Several of his Magic teammates have kept in contact with him, including then-two-way contract player Josh Magette (the Magic have since cut him).
During his time with Lakeland, Magette had an opportunity to get to know Okeke. Magette said Okeke is progressing in his recovery, according to Nathan King of Auburn Sports.
He’s been great. He’s getting closer to getting back on the court and practicing with us (Lakeland). He’s got a great attitude, really professional for being such a young guy. He comes in and is very supportive and engaged during our games. He’s a guy you want around.
The move by the Magic to redshirt Okeke is a bit rare as players entering the NBA with injuries have often signed their rookie contracts rather quickly, such as Michael Porter Jr. with the Denver Nuggets. Teammate Al-Farouq Aminu liked the move since Okeke can rehab at his own pace.
The thing that’s good about [Okeke] right now is that he has the luxury of time with him being down there with the G League. If he would have been up here or something, they would have wanted him back within seven or eight months, where the likelihood of a full rehab actually goes down. I think he’s going to be able to get a full, full year of just being able to make sure he gets his knee strong, and then be able to resume playing.
The Magic view Okeke as a potential player that can impact games on both ends of the floor. Head coach Steve Clifford believes Okeke is a perfect fit with the team as a player that is versatile on defense and can help stretch the floor on offense.
The organization has not provided an update on Okeke but president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman said during his introductory press conference that Okeke is a player of the future and they will not rush him back into action early.
Okeke could eventually play some in the G League with Lakeland but it is evident the Magic have high hopes for him in the future and believe he can develop into a key player.
[lawrence-related id=3990,855,10906]