The Orlando Magic are currently facing some skepticism from their peers in the NBA following their decision last summer to extend forward Franz Wagner with a five-year, $224 million contract. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst highlighted that this move may have “inflated” the market for young players eligible for extensions, leading to concerns among general managers negotiating similar deals.
Wagner’s 2022-23 season included some ups and downs, notably a lackluster 28% shooting from beyond the arc, which raised eyebrows when he signed the max deal. His performance in the playoffs, where he struggled with just 11-of-42 shooting over the final three games, was fresh on everyone’s mind during the contract discussions. Some sources indicated that GMs were apprehensive about the Magic’s bold move amidst pressures to avoid max contracts due to changing salary rules. A top agent even noted being set for a “recession” in contracts due to these market adjustments.
However, the Magic remained unwavering in their faith in Wagner, praising his strong work ethic and character, as well as his athletic abilities. They pointed to his career free throw shooting average of 85% as a sign that his shooting skills might improve. Additionally, the organization is optimistic about future salary cap growth, anticipating a 30% increase over the next three years due to new television revenue, which could render Wagner’s contract more palatable compared to the league’s financial landscape at the time of signing.
Wagner’s contributions have already proven valuable; last season, he averaged 19.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, leading the team back to the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-20 season. His performance this season has seen a notable uptick, with averages of 23.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists through 17 games. The Magic currently sit at 10-7, placing fourth in the Eastern Conference and positioning themselves for another potential playoff run.
This situation serves as a reminder of how teams are navigating the delicate balance of investing in young talent while responding to evolving salary dynamics in the league. The Magic’s confidence in Wagner may turn out to be a gamble that pays off, especially as they aim to solidify their roster and build on recent success. Their strategy highlights an optimistic view towards sustaining a competitive edge in the ever-changing landscape of the NBA.