Sir Charles in Charge
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Orlando Magic 2017-18 season primer: Success attracts free agents

By Pierce Dennis

CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 10: Head coach Frank Vogel of the Orlando Magic reacts during their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 10, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 10: Head coach Frank Vogel of the Orlando Magic reacts during their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 10, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Key Additions

The biggest summer addition to the Orlando Magic roster was undoubtedly Jonathon Simmons. Just four years ago, Simmons paid his way into a workout with the Spurs’ D-League affiliate. This summer his hard work earned him a three-year, $20 million contract with Orlando.

Looking at his season averages, there isn’t much positive to grab onto. It’s his postseason play that showcased the best of Simmons. He was the best player for San Antonio in the WCF against Golden State after Kawhi’s injury in Game 1. Simmons certainly shows potential, but the 28-year-old will need his postseason success to translate into more consistent regular season play.

Marreese Speights was the other key free agent signing. Coming to Orlando on a veteran’s minimum he definitely brings veteran experience, not to mention a ring with him. Speights spent last season with the Clippers, playing in all 82 games.

The 30-year-old is still a valuable role player who shot at a 37.2 percent 3-point clip last season. Speights will help the Magic from downtown on pick-and-pop sets and corner 3’s.

Orlando’s final key addition came through the NBA Draft. Jonathan Isaac was selected with the 6th overall pick as a raw talent out of Florida State. His numbers weren’t overwhelming in his only season at FSU, but scouts can easily see Isaac’s sky-high ceiling.

As a 6-foot-11 SF/PF, “Judah” can put the ball on the floor and already possesses elite defensive attributes. Frank Vogel should love getting another defense-first athlete. The main question marks for Isaac revolve around his offensive aggression. To be an elite wing, he’ll have to become more aggressive and really use his size driving to the basket.

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