Orlando Magic Free Agency Preview: The Power Forwards

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Al Horford, Atlanta Hawks, Jason Smith, Orlando Magic

Dec 20, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Jason Smith (14) drives the ball toward Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford (15) during the second half of a basketball game at Amway Center. The Atlanta Hawks won 103-100. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

The Orlando Magic all of a sudden have a glut of power forwards and post players on their roster. That makes the need for a power forward much lower.

The power forward position has transformed tremendously in the NBA in the last 10 years.

Perhaps everyone can blame Stan Van Gundy and Rashard Lewis for this. The 2009 Orlando Magic proved a non-traditional power forward who could stretch the floor could be part of a winning team and help establish a dynasty.

Sitting here seven years later, and Lewis seems a bit like a dinosaur. Power forwards are expected to be athletic and able to switch on the perimeter and make 3-pointers. Draymond Green has forced LeBron James and Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony to scale up in many ways. They can play power forward in a world they never thought would exist.

Finding the right power forward is always a difficult thing. The Magic have been after it ever since they acquired Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic always seemed a player that needed a good power forward fit, particularly on defense. Perhaps they found that in Serge Ibaka now. And then Aaron Gordon is hanging in the wings as a shapeless form of potential.

With Ibaka now in the fold, the Magic’s needs in the frontcourt are not as dire as they once were. With the Magic allowing Andrew Nicholson to enter free agency, the Magic are likely simply looking to add depth to the frontcourt. There is enough positional versatility to have Ibaka play some power forward and Gordon play some power forward.

Still the Magic are trying to move to a more modern lineup. They may want to add some toughness off the bench at this position or they may look to add more shooting and players whom they can place in the game off the bench.

Orlando is still reforming its roster.

The Magic probably will be running out of some funds when they reach this point of the offseason. So the Magic will be looking for some bargains and depth. The Magic though clearly need some frontcourt depth and can be a little creative in seeking players who can contribute to create even more flexibility.

Next: Al Horford