Blueprint For Rebuilding The Orlando Magic
By Simon Smith
Change Of Direction
These moves represent a significant change in the playing stock of the Magic. Departing are Nikola Vucevic, Evan Fournier, Aaron Gordon and Elfrid Payton. As much talent as these players possess, it’s hard to envisage any of them becoming All-Stars or better.
However, by taking such brave steps, the magic can set themselves up for success in both the short and long-term. Jrue Holiday will require a maximum contract. Paul George will be due for a maximum extension following the 2017-18 season. James Johnson is likely to command in the range of a four-year, $60 million deal.
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One issue is dealing with the contracts of point guards D.J. Augustin and C.J. Watson. Watson is signed through till the end of 2019-20 on a $29 million contract. Watson’s is shorter, concluding at the end of 2017-18 at $5 million annually. These will need to be either traded somehow or possibly waived and paid out using the NBA’s stretch provision.
But the remaining players on the roster have very cap-friendly contracts. Bobby Portis and Jerian Grant’s rookie deals don’t expire until the end of the 2018-19, as does that of second-year shooting guard Mario Hezonja. Even newly acquired Terrance Ross is $10 million annual deal through 2018-19 is more than reasonable.
If these moves were to come to fruition, it obviously represents a vastly different lineup. A core rotation of George, Holiday, Johnson, Biyombo, Ross, Grant, Portis and Hezonja is a great fit in the modern-day NBA. You have a genuine superstar, an All-Star point guard and a number of pieces that would fit nicely around their talents.
Versatility both offensively and defensively, perimeter shooting and veteran/playoff experience are just some of the attributes the Magic would possess. Furthermore, the age group of this core is such that the Magic would be team ti be reckoned with for many years to come.
Next: 5 Teams That Should Trade For Nikola Vucevic
Hennigan has clearly stated his intentions with the recent Ibaka trade, and the subsequent speculation regarding the acquisition of Reggie Jackson.
He could do worse than reading through this blueprint and latching on to a few suggestions.