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Tristan da Silva · One might argue that on the list of places for a player to be, the road arena of the NBA’s No. 1-ranked team likely ranks somewhere near the bottom. Unbothered by that atmosphere, Tristan da Silva used the nationally-televised stage to confirm a well-known fact: even in uncertain situations, the Orlando Magic’s No. 18 pick has mastered being in the right place at the right time. Looping Orlando’s offense into a different two-man variation after its first attempt stalls, da Silva powers through a ghost screen with a swiftness that leaves the Cleveland Cavaliers unprepared. Ahead of the pack enough to encourage a teammate’s one-handed hook pass, da Silva reaps its benefits, shoveling a quick, first-time bucket beyond Jarrett Allen’s reach. Among the 2024 NBA Draft’s more productive contributors already, da Silva shined, even in a losing effort. In just his second game, the German swingman erupted for 17 points (on six-of-eight shooting), five rebounds, two assists, and a perfect three-of-three from deep. · State of Mint