Orlando Magic Training Camp Battles
The final two-way
It is probably of less consequence who gets this deal. But it is the last bit of roster maneuvering the Orlando Magic have left to handle in training camp with a full camp roster of 20 players. Inevitably, the Magic may make some late cuts so they can sneak some extra money to other players they plan to fill the Lakeland Magic’s roster with.
But, hey, Lakeland has a title to defend.
For now, Ignas Brazdeikis holds one of the two-way contracts on the Magic’s roster. The team has not specifically announced that anyone else has received a two-way deal.
So any of the Magic’s camp invitees — Jeff Dowtin, Hassani Gravett, Admiral Schofield and Jon Teske — are fighting for that little extra and the chance to be near the main roster. They will all likely be headed to Lakeland for the majority of the season regardless.
As always, though, the question is: How do the Magic actually want to use their two-way contract? What kind of player is this contract for?
There have certainly been some questions about how the Magic have used the Lakeland Magic.
The most effective use of it since the team arrived in Central Florida was as a place for rehab for main roster players. Jonathan Isaac played a few games there in his rookie year while coming back from an ankle injury. Other players got some extended reps there too — such as Wesley Iwundu or Khem Birch.
What it has not been to this point is a way to graduate players through their system. It is not a true minor league in that sense. So it is hard to say who the Magic might pick from their training camp invites to take the two-way contract.
Are the Magic going to use it to supplement some need on their roster? In that case, recent signee Admiral Schofield is probably the best bet to get it.
Are they going to use it on whoever performs best in training camp practices and preseason games?
There are not clear answers on any front. But the Magic will make that decision one way or another.