Rookie Courtney Lee Plays Key Role with Orlando Magic

"With the 22nd pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, the Orlando Magic select Courtney Lee from Western Kentucky University."

Those are the words that NBA Commissioner David Stern uttered as Magic fans across the world began their optimism about rookie Courtney Lee. After the Magic disappointed with a limp 42-42 record and a second round exit in last year's playoffs, Magic fans were ready for a new season and roster changes that would boost their team to the top.

Who knew that change would come in the form of the 22nd overall draft pick.

Lee was drafted by the Magic because of his athleticism, scoring, and overall well-rounded ability. Lee was a stud at Western averaging over 17 points per game, 20 points per game during his senior season, which resulted in the Hilltoppers making a Cinderella run to the Sweet 16. At 6'5" 200 pounds, Lee was sure to help the Magic with their weak shooting guard rotation.

The Magic were expected to sign a free agent to be their next starter at shooting guard. This happened on July 10, 2008, when they signed Mickael Pietrus. Pietrus was expected to start and be their man at the two guard.

Pietrus did start early on, but a hand injury left Orlando looking to Lee to step up and take on the starting role. 

Orlando's 58-20 record can be reflected on how much Lee stepped up.

Not only has Lee been producing on the offensive end of the ball (8.3 PPG), but also on the defensive end. However, Orlando didn't bring Lee in for his defensive prowess on the perimeter. He was drafted largely because of his 46.3 field goal shooting percentage, and 40.0 mark from beyond the arc, at Western Kentucky, which he has also brought to Orlando (41 percent).

Courtney Lee has somewhat transformed into one of the best perimeter defenders the league has seen this year, by locking down the league's best two guards and notching a steal night in a night out.

Lee has been described as "The best perimeter defender on the league's best defensive team" by ESPN's David Thorpe.

Lee rightfully deserves a title of such heights in just his rookie season.