If the Orlando Magic decide not to re-sign Tobias Harris, there may be an impetus to sign a guy in free agency who can solidify Orlando as a Playoff team.
This year’s free agent crop is not the most attractive comparative to what is yet to come when the current collective bargaining agreement expires and the new TV deal kicks in, but the Orlando Magic need to make the step towards playoff contention in one offseason. That may require spending some money.
Superficially, the first issue here with spending cap room is that it must exist.
That means there is no re-signing of restricted free agent Tobias Harris. They may not even be able to offer him the qualifying offer to ensure maximum cap space and flexibility. By not committing $10 to $13 million to Harris, the Magic will have the funds to offer considerate offers to some of the free agents whose values may not be fully recognized.
If the Orlando Magic decide not to re-sign Tobias Harris, there may be a driving impetus to sign a guy who can solidify Orlando as a postseason team.
Each of the following five free agents has potential still to be cashed in on, and while all are in favorable situations right now, the chance could be there for one to be a star player on a young team — or even just an indispensable part of a much better roster.
Of course, that is, if the price is right and the Magic pony up the cash to beat all bidders.
Next: Paul Millsap