​Following the official opening of free agency on June 30 at 6 p.m. ET, the Orlando Magic wasted no time initiating roster moves. On Wednesday, Orlando welcomed back former All-Star center Nikola Vucevic with a one-year, $3.9 million contract. The front office also re-signed Jevon Carter to a one-year deal and brought Jonathan Isaac back after waiving him on June 27. In the departure column, center Moe Wagner signed a two-year, $19 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets.
For the Magic, this summer was expected to be constrained by their large payroll and status as a first-apron team, yet they remained active. In the latest episode of the Full Court Magic podcast, I examined the organization’s July maneuvering and began by praising the Vucevic signing: “He returns to the Magic on a $3.9 million deal. This is a value move for Orlando. They not only reunite with a key figure in franchise history but also add depth at center. Vucevic remains capable of delivering a double-double, even at 35 and with miles on his resume. He’s still a productive player who, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, passed up more lucrative offers to return to Orlando. That’s a smart investment by the front office and Jeff Weltman.”
I also offered trade grades, giving this move an A not only for nostalgia but for adding a reliable backup center, especially after Moe Wagner’s departure to the Nets, also reported by Charania. This signing effectively provides a solid veteran behind Wendell Carter Jr. and could help form a potential one-two punch at the five. The future of Goga Bitadze remains uncertain, with the Magic showing little inclination to shop him; if he stays, alongside Carter Jr., the frontcourt would boast three solid centers to bolster depth.
Vucevic may be aging, but he remains productive and strengthens the Magic’s bench. Don’t miss our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news—it’s completely free to join by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable app to stay even more connected!