The Orlando Magic have not been relevant in the East since the Dwight Howard era in 2009 when they got swept by the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. But, with the East getting significantly weaker it seems to be the right time for Eastern Conference teams to make the push for a playoff spot. Here are some updates on the Orlando Magic offseason so far and an update on the Cleveland drama:
Rose joins LeBron
With all the turmoil in Cleveland Cavaliers, they finally get a break by acquiring former NBA Most Valuable Player in Derek Rose. Shams Charania has reported that Derek Rose has agreed to a one year deal with the Cavs this offseason.
Amidst the Kyrie Irving controversy acquiring Derek Rose for around 2 million dollars is truly a god send for LeBron and the Cavs. Last season the former MVP averaged 18 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 47.1% from the field.
Magic to waive CJ Watson
Chris Haynes of ESPN has reported that the Orlando Magic are going to waive CJ Watson this offseason, he originally signed a three year 15 million dollar deal with the magic last 2015. Watson went undrafted in the 2006 NBA Draft and made his NBA debut with the Golden State Warriors in 2008.
Entering his ninth season in the NBA, he has career averages of 7.6 points, one steal, 2.5 assists, and two rebounds while shooting 42.1% from the field and 37.9% from beyond the arc.
With the acquisition of Shelvin Mack, it only seems logical to waive Watson to prevent the Magic having an abundance of point guards for next season.
Derrick Rose has committed to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers and completed his physical exam today, league sources tell The Vertical.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 24, 2017
Orlando acquire Jonathan Simmons
After having a break out year with the San Antonio Spurs last year, it seems like Simmons will get his money worth next season.
Jonathan Simmons has reportedly agreed to a three year 18 million dollar deal with the Orlando Magic this offseason per Adrian Wojnarowski of NBA ESPN.
By acquiring Simmons the Magic add a back up shooting guard for behind Evan Fournier next season, it adds not only depth but also a sense of athleticism and energy which Simmons was known for during his stay in San Antonio.
He had his best season last year with the Spurs averaging 10.5 points, 0.1 blocks, 1.9 assists, 1.9 rebounds while shooting 45.6% from the field (all stats mentioned are career highs).
The Magic are still very far from a competing team this offseason, but with the substantial weakening of the Eastern Conference, the Orlando Magic may be a few pieces away from taking an NBA playoff spot next season.
