3. How do you see Jennings and Ilyasova fitting in with their former Milwaukee Bucks coach Scott Skiles in Orlando?
Shackelford: I think Skiles will probably use Jennings and Ilyasova in similar ways as Stan Van Gundy did–only Ilyasova won’t be starting for the Magic. It’s hard to see Jennings doing much more with the Magic, at least statistically, because Van Gundy’s system is so point guard-friendly, but you never know. Perhaps the more games Jennings plays in, the more he begins to look like his old self.
Thielke: Jennings will be the new backup point guard. And he will be much more suited to that role than Shabazz Napier or Victor Oladipo. Largely because he is a constant threat to pull up and shoot at any moment. He’s not really a better shooter than those guys. But he is more unpredictable. Ilyasova will probably just be a better version of Channing Frye–who I hear is probably moving to the Los Angeles Clippers. But I expect he gets a smaller role for the rest of the season.
Smith: Jennings and Ilyasova are both veterans, and Scott Skiles likes veterans, so I think they’ll be alright in Orlando. They have experience with Skiles from their time in Milwaukee, so they’ll surely know what to expect. Jennings will slide into the backup point guard spot for the rest of the year, and Ilyasova will probably come off the bench behind Aaron Gordon who has started the last 11 games for the Magic, but that could be up for debate.
Rossman-Reich: I am still trying to figure this out. Jennings and Ilyasova bring skills to the team that they were really lacking. Orlando desperately needed outside shooting, or at least the threat of it, to loosen up defenses. Jennings and Ilyasova in theory provide that, although both are not shooting great. Orlando will probably bring both off the bench so roles with the starting lineup are likely a little more defined now and that should help stabilize the team off the bench and in the rotation. If they can get the ball moving and accept their roles, it should give the team a bit of a boost. How much, I am a bit skeptical.
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