7:43pm: The Magic have officially announced their new signings through a press release (Twitter link).
7:34pm: Free agent guard Jarrett Culver has reached an agreement with the Magic, as confirmed by his agents BJ Bass and Cam Brennick to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype (Twitter link).
According to Jason Beede of The Orlando Sentinel (via Twitter), Culver’s contract will contain Exhibit 10 language, and free agent small forwards Tre Scott and Jalen Slawson are also signing Exhibit 10 training camp deals.
Culver, a 6’6″ shooting guard/small forward who played at Texas Tech, was drafted by the Suns as the No. 6 pick in 2019 before being traded to the Timberwolves on draft night. At 25 years old, he has also played for the Grizzlies and Hawks. In his 144 NBA regular-season appearances (43 as a starter), Culver has averaged 6.5 points with shooting splits of .401/.276/.509. Additionally, he has posted averages of 2.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 0.7 steals per game.
Scott, 27, has primarily played for G League teams since going undrafted out of Cincinnati in 2020. He has had a brief stint with the Cavaliers on a 10-day hardship deal during the 2021/22 season, where he earned minutes in two NBA games.
Slawson, who is 24, was selected by the Kings with the No. 54 pick in the 2023 draft out of Furman. He signed a two-way contract with Sacramento and participated in 12 games during the 2023/24 season, averaging just 3.1 minutes on the court per game.
As they approach training camp, Orlando has two available two-way contract slots. Based on Beede’s report, Scott and Slawson will compete for these spots against previously announced signings Myron Gardner and Mac McClung. Furthermore, Beede notes that Culver will not be eligible for a two-way deal due to exceeding the maximum number of NBA years served.
Exhibit 10 contracts may be converted into two-way deals before the start of the NBA season. However, if a player is waived by their team, they can still receive a bonus of up to $77.5K, provided they spend at least 60 days with the team’s G League affiliate.
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Orlando Magic Bolster Roster with New Signings: Jarrett Culver, Tre Scott, and Jalen Slawson Join the Team
Overview of New Additions
The Orlando Magic have made significant strides in enhancing their roster ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season. With the recent signings of Jarrett Culver, Tre Scott, and Jalen Slawson, the team aims to improve its competitive edge. Let’s take a closer look at each player’s background and how they fit into the Magic’s plans.
Jarrett Culver: A Promising Wing
Jarrett Culver, a former top-10 draft pick, brings a wealth of potential to the Magic. Known for his versatility as a shooting guard/small forward, Culver has showcased his ability to score and defend at multiple positions.
Career Highlights
- Drafted 6th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2019.
- Played for the Atlanta Hawks and has experience in various roles.
- Averaged 9.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists during the 2021-2022 season.
Why Culver Fits the Magic
Culver’s defensive skills and ability to stretch the floor are crucial for the Magic as they seek to build a well-rounded team. His experience in playoff settings will also help mentor younger players.
Tre Scott: The Versatile Forward
Tre Scott, a 6’8″ forward, has made a name for himself with his hustle and defensive prowess. After going undrafted in 2020, he has worked his way up through the G-League, proving he can contribute effectively in various capacities.
Career Highlights
- Strong performance in the G-League with averages of 14.0 points and 8.0 rebounds.
- Known for his athleticism and high basketball IQ.
- Has played a pivotal role in his team’s defensive schemes.
Why Scott Fits the Magic
Scott’s energy and work ethic fit perfectly with the Magic’s rebuilding effort. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute offensively will be invaluable as the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season.
Jalen Slawson: A Rising Star
Jalen Slawson is another exciting addition to the Magic roster. The 6’8″ forward has shown flashes of brilliance during his collegiate career at Furman, where he demonstrated an all-around game that includes scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.
Career Highlights
- Averaged 15.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists during his senior year.
- Recognized for his defensive capabilities and versatility.
- Gained national attention for his performances in key games.
Why Slawson Fits the Magic
Slawson’s ability to play both forward positions makes him a valuable asset for the Magic. His skill set complements the existing roster and adds depth, particularly in the forward rotation.
Magic’s Strategic Vision
With these new signings, the Orlando Magic are clearly focusing on building a young and dynamic team. The combination of Culver, Scott, and Slawson not only enhances the depth of the roster but also aligns with the franchise’s long-term vision.
Benefits of the New Additions
- Increased Competition: Each player brings unique strengths that will foster a competitive environment during practices.
- Defensive Versatility: All three players are capable defenders, which could improve the team’s defensive rating significantly.
- Offensive Flexibility: Their ability to play multiple positions provides the coaching staff with more options during games.
Impact on the Current Roster
The integration of Culver, Scott, and Slawson will undoubtedly affect the dynamics of the current Magic roster. Here are some immediate impacts:
Depth Chart Considerations
| Position | Current Player | New Addition |
|---|---|---|
| Shooting Guard | Markelle Fultz | Jarrett Culver |
| Small Forward | Franz Wagner | Tre Scott |
| Power Forward | Paolo Banchero | Jalen Slawson |
Coaching Perspectives
Head Coach Jamahl Mosley is thrilled about the new additions and their fit within his system. He emphasizes the importance of player development and the need for a balanced approach.
Coaching Strategy with New Roster
- Emphasizing Player Development: A focus on enhancing the skills of younger players.
- Creating a Cohesive Unit: Ensuring that all players understand their roles within the team framework.
- Utilizing Versatility: Implementing offensive and defensive schemes that leverage the unique skills of the new players.
First-Hand Experiences from the Players
Jarrett Culver, Tre Scott, and Jalen Slawson have expressed their excitement about joining the Orlando Magic. Their interviews highlight their eagerness to contribute and develop under the guidance of the coaching staff.
Player Quotes
“I’m ready to bring my game to Orlando and help this team grow and compete at a high level.” – Jarrett Culver
“Joining the Magic is a great opportunity for me to show what I can do and be part of something special.” – Tre Scott
“I believe in the vision the Magic have and am excited to help bring that to life.” – Jalen Slawson
Final Thoughts on the Magic’s Future
The Orlando Magic’s recent signings of Jarrett Culver, Tre Scott, and Jalen Slawson mark a pivotal moment in the franchise’s journey. With a talented core and a strategic vision, the Magic are poised to make waves in the upcoming NBA season. The blend of youthful energy and experienced players will likely lead to a more competitive and entertaining brand of basketball for fans to enjoy.
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