NBA Rumors: Nikola Vucevic could remain with Orlando Magic in free agency
What's the rumor?
Following an impressive season in which he received a first All-Star call-up, Nikola Vucevic was expected to be among the most in-demand players during free agency. However, Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders is reporting that the 28-year-old has failed to attract much interest, and believes that Vucevic will re-sign with the Orlando Magic:
Vooch we’ll see he may not have the market most expected a month ago. I think a first year north of $20m and declining each year with a partial on a 4th gets it done for Orlando. Mo is not ready for a full time workload and the Magic want to remain competitive.
In case you didn't know...
Vucevic joined the Orlando Magic back in 2012 as part of the four-team trade that sent Dwight Howard to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Serbian has been a regular starter throughout his seven seasons in Orlando, although he took his game to the next level during the 18-19 campaign. The 28-year-old averaged 20.8 points, 12.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game.
The heart of the matter
Vucevic was among the most dominant bigs during the 18-19 season, however, it appears that teams don't want to hand a max deal to a center that will turn 29 later this year.
Nevertheless, Vucevic should still command big money from Orlando, and he is likely to be playing in a Magic uniform at the start of next season.
What's next?
NBA franchises will be free to contact all free agents and their agents beginning on June 29 at 6 p.m, but contracts can't be officially signed until July 6.
Let us know in the comments below if you believe the Orlando Magic should extend Nikola Vucevic's contract.
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