Orlando Magic: Complete 2017 offseason grades

First of the offseason signings

Things went quiet around the Magic as the big-name free agents moved to different destinations to play. This was to be expected, but it was still somewhat frustrating to sit out while guys who could help the team were never even linked with the organization.

Potentially getting a meeting with Andre Iguodala was as good as it got, although thankfully the team did not go down this route.

Orlando Magic

Instead, point guard Shelvin Mack was the first in the door, coming over from the Utah Jazz after having a career year in their run to the second round of the playoffs.

Although a little puzzling, it was the kind of move the was expected to make, despite being at a position that fans are still divided over. The overall feeling is that adding Mack was good business at two years, $12 million. He has also appeared in 30 postseason games.

Mack has spent most of his career as a component backup, although unsurprisingly, his best numbers have occurred when given extended run as a starter.

This is where the confusion comes in, as at 26 Mack must surely want to become a starter in the league as he enters his prime. Payton is clinging onto that position with the Magic, for now, and this move must be seen as another to warn Payton he’s running out of opportunities.

He’s had veterans such as C.J. Watson and D.J. Augustin to help him over the last couple of years, and it still hasn’t come together for him. Mack will no doubt start the season behind Payton, but a slow start from him and there could be a change, with Mack looking the most sensible option to take over starting duties.

A sensible addition.

Grade: B