Orlando Magic center Mo Bamba is having a breakout 2021-22 season. Everything’s coming together for the former Longhorn in his fourth season in the NBA as he is healthy and receiving plenty of chances to showcase his talent.
The No. 6 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft has struggled to stay healthy and on the court his first three seasons in the NBA. He appeared in only 155 games his first three seasons, starting only six. He also had limited opportunities being stuck behind All-Star center Nikola Vucevic on the depth chart.
This season, with Vucevic on the Chicago Bulls, Bamba has started all 19 games the Magic have played thus far this season. He is playing nearly double the number of minutes per game this season as he did in his first three seasons in the NBA and he is making the most of the added opportunities.
The Harlem native is putting up career numbers across the board with the increased playing time. He is averaging 11.1 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 2.1 blocks per game. His 3-point percentage of 34.1 percent is also encouraging, as he has the potential to be a floor-spacing big man.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mo Bamba Reveals What Has Helped Him Grow This Season
With his intriguing skill set, Bamba will likely land a lucrative deal in free agency. The Magic and Bamba failed to agree to a contract extension before the season, so he could be heading toward restricted free agency if they extend a qualifying offer to him.
If he has his way, it sounds as if Bamba would like to remain in Orlando as he loves playing for the franchise. He isn’t worried about free agency and is high on the future of the players on the team.
“I think the sky’s the limit for this young group. We have a lot of talent, and we have a lot of depth at every position. I’m excited to be a part of this. I’m excited to wear Orlando across my chest. I’m just focusing on the now and the moment.”
The Orlando Magic currently has 11 players on the roster that are 24-years of age or younger. They are loaded with young talent and the future looks bright in Orlando despite the struggles the team is going through this season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mo Bamba Reveals What Has Helped Him Grow This Season
Mo Bamba is one of those high-upside young players and is someone that the organization should be looking to retain long-term this offseason.
