The NBA Draft is tomorrow, and Wisconsin fans are watching with anticipation to see if John Tonje will slip into the first round of the NBA Draft. If he doesn't, we will be back here again, checking to see what teams will be a good fit in the second round, which is really the goal of this article. There are three teams in the range where most experts think Tonje will be drafted that could really unlock his potential: The Orlando Magic, the Memphis Grizzlies, and the Detroit Pistons.
Orlando Magic
The Desmond Bane trade changed how the Magic are going to approach this draft. They need shooters, and John Tonje was one of the best shooters in the NBA Combine and has an elite catch-and-shoot three-point rate of 42%. A role off the bench in a spot-up shooting way could really help John Tonje grow into his NBA game.
The good news for Tonje is that the Magic don’t typically rush development projects. They are known for giving rookies and young wings real minutes as they grow into the NBA game. Players like Franz Wagner, who came in a little clunky but is now a borderline all-star. There could be a real fit with Paolo Banchero as Tonje helps spread the floor and helps on defense.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies turned Scottie Pippen Jr. from a real project to a super valuable player. They also love players like Tonje—physical, high-IQ wings who can guard and shoot. Their elite G-League team could help Tonje develop into a two-way player if that's what he needs.
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons are another great landing spot for Tonje in the second round. They could really use another shooter to help ease some of the pressure off of Malik Beasley. Their success depends on him having a career year; they can't expect that again and will need a shooter like Tonje. They are known to let second-round picks and even undrafted players fight for a role. It helps that the Pistons are rebuilding, and Tonje could have a solid role right off the bat.