2017 Orlando Magic Free Agency Preview: The Small Forwards
By Ryan Doyle
The Orlando Magic could use some help out on the wing. With only limited cap space, will Orlando look to improve their 3-point shooting and defense with a small forward?
After drafting Jonathan Isaac, the Orlando Magic may have found their long-term answer at small forward. But many believe it will take some time before Jonathan Isaac can handle the bulk of the work.
While Isaac develops, the Magic could find a short-term answer at the position. Now, Mario Hezonja and Terrence Ross can probably do the job for the time being, but three are more appealing options in the free agent market.
As the Magic head into a new season, the Magic are going to be desperate for some offense on the wing. At the moment, Terrence Ross has yet to prove he can be a consistent option there and Mario Hezonja would need to take major strides to be a factor.
Along with being able to score, defense is paramount at this position. Isaac should be able to provide that from his first game, but the other small forwards are not good at that end.
But each small forward on Orlando’s roster come with question marks. This free agency period will dictate which direction the Magic are trying to go. If they are trying to return to the playoffs as soon as possible, there are plenty of names on the market who can be an immediate boost on the wings.
As the Magic head into free agency, they do not have the cap room other teams have. They will not be spending big on a player. They will most likely be looking for a rotational player who can eat up minutes and play a specific role. That player may be a sharpshooter or a defensive stalwart. As long as he can play a role, he could be a target for the Magic.