Jase Richardson's NBA Draft "slide" may have been a blessing in disguise on Wednesday night.
The now-former Michigan State star was considered a top-20 pick just a month ago, but a disappointing height measurement at the NBA Combine may have set him back slightly as some saw him slipping toward the end of the first round.
Some laughed off the notion that it would lead to a big slide, but he was projected as a top 14-18 pick and then betting sites had him as a "top-20" pick on draft day at plus odds. Basically, everyone kind of assumed that he would be selected somewhere in that 20-30 range -- at least a 10-spot slide.
Well, it came to fruition as he slid down to No. 25 overall as the Orlando Magic selected him late on Wednesday night.
While the slide was slightly disappointing, one NBA analyst believes that his selection by the Orlando Magic sets up a "dream fit" for both sides.
Jase Richardson x Orlando Magic = DREAM FIT
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 26, 2025
This is perfect for both sides. All his size concerns mitigated by this massive, lengthy Magic roster. Adds elite shooting and connective playmaking. Jase would've been top 10 on my Magic big board.
Many more shooters for the Magic to… pic.twitter.com/geaPzINBJR
Kevin O'Connor stated that his size concerns are mitigated by the Magic's lengthy roster and he can add an elite shooter and playmaker to the rotation. He doesn't need to be the biggest guy on the floor because the rest of the roster makes up for his lack of size.
In my opinion, it's not the height that matters, it's the wingspan coupled with athleticism and Jase has both of the latter. He has a 6-foot-6 wingspan and an impressive 38-inch vertical that would make Coen Carr proud. Richardson has all the tools and the perfect roster fit to excel in the NBA and have a long, successful career.
Buy Jase Richardson stock now.