Ish Smith, The Orlando Magic And The Fastest Call-Up In NBA D-League History

Players have recently figured out that the fastest way to getting an NBA opportunity is by way of the Development League (or by being named Francisco Elson, of course). The newest player to figure that out was Ish Smith, though Smith didn't have to wait nearly as long as most players do in his situation.

Smith joined the Los Angeles D-Fenders earlier this week and, without playing a game, he was called up to the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. Ridiculous Upside confirmed Smith left Los Angeles on Wednesday to join the Magic in a move related to the team releasing veteran guard Larry Hughes.

It's a move, I believe, that makes the former Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard the fastest call-up in D-League history.

I was really looking forward to watching Smith play in the D-League as it's clear he could still use a bit of development, but it's a great opportunity for him as he joins his third NBA team in two months after being cut by the Memphis Grizzlies during training camp and then again by the Golden State Warriors last month -- though he did get some playing time, including a spot-start, with the latter.

Smith likely wasn't signed to a guaranteed contract, but he won't have to last long with the Magic to ensure that becomes reality. The NBA set a contract guarantee date of Jan. 10 this season with 10-day contracts beginning Monday, Jan. 6.

For posterity's sake, Smith is set to become the third point guard called-up from the Eric Musselman coached D-Fenders this season alongside Jamaal Tinsley of the Utah Jazz and the recently-released Courtney Fortson.