The Orlando Magic appear to add much-needed perimeter power to its roster through the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. With the 16th overall pick, mock drafts consistently link the Magic to Michigan State freshman Jase Richardson, son of two-time NBA Slam Dunk champion Jason Richardson, as the solution to their shooting woes.
The lefty guard’s impressive 41.2% 3-point shooting would directly address Orlando’s biggest weakness, as they finished the 2024-25 season as the NBA’s worst three-point shooting team.
Magic’s Shooting Solution Found in NBA Legacy Prospect
The latest CSN mock draft has the Magic taking Richardson with their 16th overall pick, highlighting the perfect alignment between team need and player skillset.
Jase Richardson’s pace, skill-level, feel for the game, perimeter shooting, and high-intensity defense give him an excellent framework to build on long-term. The son of Jason Richardson plays a mistake-free style, helping him earn the trust of coach Tom Izzo. https://t.co/H5vfMrsu2s pic.twitter.com/kkc6VUGU13
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 8, 2025
Multiple mock drafts show similar projections with Richardson’s shooting ability making him an ideal candidate to address Orlando’s perimeter needs. The mock draft consensus appears to be strengthening as the draft approaches.
CSN’s Bjorn Bergstrom projects Richardson as the perfect fit for Orlando, stating, “The Magic have a dire need for dynamic guards, and they get one here in Richardson. The son of former NBA veteran Jason Richardson, Jase excelled late in the season with the Spartans, growing into their go-to scorer during conference play. The lefty has the full package, being able to get to the hoop and shoot the three at a clip of 41.2%.”
Despite measuring smaller than his listed college height at the NBA Combine (officially 6’0.5″ versus his listed 6’3″), Richardson’s draft stock remains stabilized by his impressive shooting display and explosive athleticism. His 38-inch vertical leap ranked among the best at the combine, while his 56% shooting performance placed him in the top 10 participants.
Richardson’s All-Around Game Offers Versatile Backcourt Option
Richardson’s freshman campaign with the Spartans went well beyond just perimeter shooting. The lefty guard averaged 12.1 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game with a remarkable 49.3% field goal percentage.
His skill set would complement the playmaking of Orlando’s current guards Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black, providing the floor spacing that none of the Magic’s young guards have consistently delivered.
Richardson’s ability to create his own shot and score efficiently in both spot-up situations and off the dribble would add a new dimension to Orlando’s offense.
His presence would force defenses to respect the Magic’s spacing, creating more driving lanes for stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, who currently shoulder much of the team’s scoring burden.
His basketball IQ and familiarity with NBA life as his father once briefly played for Orlando in his 14 seasons career, further enhancing his fit with the developing Magic roster.
KEEP READING: Why College Basketball Players Keep Transfer Options Open After Declaring for the NBA Draft
With his shooting prowess and NBA bloodlines, Richardson represents the specialized perimeter threat that could elevate Orlando’s offense while maintaining their defensive identity through his quickness and 6’6″ wingspan, which helps offset concerns about his smaller frame.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
