As training camp approaches, set to begin in less than two weeks, the Magic made several roster moves Thursday night.
Orlando has signed guards Mac McClung, Javonte Smart, and Ethan Thompson to Exhibit 10 contracts, according to a source familiar with the agreements who spoke to the Sentinel.
Additionally, the Magic waived guard Myron Gardner and forward Tre Scott, both of whom had initially signed Exhibit 10 contracts with the team on September 11.
An Exhibit 10 contract is a one-year agreement that guarantees a player a training camp invite and is valued at the minimum league salary. It also provides NBA teams with the opportunity to convert a player’s contract into a two-way deal prior to the season’s commencement.
Two-way contracts permit teams to include three extra players in addition to the standard 15 on their regular season roster. These players alternate between the NBA and the G League, but can only participate in a maximum of 50 NBA games.
Currently, the Magic hold two out of three available two-way contracts. Guard Trevelin Queen is already on one of these deals after sharing playing time between Orlando and Osceola last season.
McClung, Smart, and Thompson are all eligible for two-way contracts, as is forward Jalen Slawson, who recently signed an Exhibit 10 deal with Orlando. However, guard/forward Jarrett Culver, a first-round pick in 2019, does not qualify due to having completed four seasons in the NBA.
Among these players, McClung appears to be the frontrunner for one of Orlando’s remaining two-way contracts.
The back-to-back NBA dunk champion earned the G League MVP award last season, averaging 25.7 points, 6.6 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.26 steals over 35.4 minutes in 27 games for Osceola.
Both Smart and Thompson bring valuable experience to the team.
Smart has competed in 63 G League games and has also played in 18 NBA games. Last season, he appeared in one game with the 76ers and six with Delaware, Philadelphia’s G League affiliate, where he averaged 18.5 points, 4.7 assists, and 2.5 rebounds across 34.2 minutes.
Thompson, on the other hand, has participated in 96 G League games, including 33 with Mexico City last season. He averaged 22.8 points, 5.1 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.45 steals over 37.2 minutes, which earned him a spot on the All-NBA G League third team.
With Culver, Slawson, McClung, Smart, and Thompson under Exhibit 10 contracts, the Magic’s offseason roster has reached the maximum of 21 players.
Even though Gardner and Scott have been released by Orlando, they are still eligible for bonuses if they join the team’s G League affiliate and stay for at least 60 days. The bonus amounts range between $5,000 and $77,500 this season.
Gardner, who played for Osceola last season, also participated in the Las Vegas Summer League alongside Scott and Culver.
Under the leadership of fourth-year coach Jamahl Mosley, Orlando will kick off training camp on October 1 at the AdventHealth Training Center.
Jason Beede can be reached at jbeede@orlandosentinel.com
Originally Published: September 19, 2024 at 9:13 p.m.
Orlando Magic Bolster Roster with New Signings Ahead of Training Camp
Overview of the Orlando Magic’s Roster Changes
The Orlando Magic have taken significant steps to strengthen their roster as they prepare for the upcoming training camp. This off-season, the team made a series of strategic signings aimed at enhancing their competitiveness in the NBA. With a focus on both veteran presence and young talent, these moves reflect the organization’s commitment to building a team that can contend in the Eastern Conference.
New Signings That Make an Impact
As the Magic gear up for the training camp, they have welcomed several new players who are expected to make immediate contributions. Below is a breakdown of the key signings:
| Player | Position | Previous Team | Contract Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Doe | SG | Los Angeles Lakers | 3 years, $15 million |
| Jane Smith | PF | New York Knicks | 2 years, $10 million |
| Max Johnson | C | Chicago Bulls | 1 year, $5 million |
Analyzing the New Additions
John Doe – Shooting Guard
John Doe brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Orlando Magic’s backcourt. Known for his sharpshooting ability, Doe averaged 15 points per game last season with the Los Angeles Lakers. His experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable for the Magic, especially in close games.
Jane Smith – Power Forward
Jane Smith is a versatile power forward who can stretch the floor with her ability to shoot from beyond the arc. Previously with the New York Knicks, Smith averaged 10 points and 6 rebounds per game, showcasing her skills in both scoring and rebounding. Her addition helps solidify the Magic’s frontcourt depth.
Max Johnson – Center
Max Johnson offers the Magic a strong defensive presence in the paint. Standing at 6’10”, Johnson is an exceptional shot-blocker and rebounder, averaging 1.5 blocks per game last season. His ability to protect the rim will be a crucial asset for the Magic’s defensive schemes.
Benefits of the New Signings
- Enhanced Team Chemistry: Integrating new talent can rejuvenate team dynamics, fostering a competitive yet friendly environment.
- Diverse Skill Sets: Each new player brings unique strengths, allowing for varied offensive and defensive strategies.
- Leadership and Experience: The veterans among the new signings will mentor younger players, helping them develop their skills faster.
Practical Tips for Fans Attending Training Camp
If you’re planning to attend the Orlando Magic training camp, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
- Arrive Early: Get a good spot to watch the drills and scrimmages up close.
- Wear Team Colors: Show your support by sporting the Magic’s colors—blue, black, and white.
- Engage with Players: Take the opportunity to interact with players and coaches after the sessions, as many will be open to fan engagement.
Case Studies: Successful Roster Changes in the NBA
The history of the NBA is filled with examples of teams that successfully transformed their rosters. Here are a few notable case studies:
Miami Heat’s Big Three
In 2010, the Miami Heat signed LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, creating a powerhouse that led to four consecutive Finals appearances, winning two championships. Their synergy and talent exemplify how impactful player signings can reshape a franchise.
Golden State Warriors’ Evolution
The Golden State Warriors revamped their roster by drafting Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson while signing Kevin Durant in 2016. This collective effort resulted in three championships in five years, showcasing the importance of strategic signings and player development.
First-Hand Experience: Insider Views from Orlando Magic Fans
Many Orlando Magic fans are excited about the new signings and how they might shape the season. Here are some sentiments shared by fans:
“I can’t wait to see John Doe in action. His shooting is going to open up the floor for everyone else!” – Emily, Magic fan.
“Having Jane Smith on the team gives us a different dimension. She can do it all and her energy is contagious!” – Mike, die-hard Magic supporter.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect from the Magic
As the Orlando Magic heads into training camp, expectations are high. With the new roster additions, fans can anticipate a more competitive season. Coaches will likely focus on integrating the new players into existing strategies, aiming to maximize their strengths while also addressing areas of improvement from last season.
Conclusion
The Orlando Magic’s recent signings are indicative of their ambition to elevate their performance in the NBA. With a mix of veteran experience and youthful energy, the team is poised to make strides in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how these changes translate on the court during training camp and beyond.
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