Report: Magic a "Serious Threat" To Sign Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in Free Agency

The Orlando Magic could make a splash on the first day of free agency on Sunday by signing Denver Nuggets guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.

May 4, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (5) shoots the ball in the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game one of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports / Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

ORLANDO — The Orlando Magic could be one of the most enticing teams for veterans in free agency, thanks to the team’s recent playoff run led by a young core comprised of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. 

Now, NBA insider Marc Stein has reported that the Magic could be trying to lure Denver Nuggets sharpshooter Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to Orlando in free agency.

"League sources have indicated Friday that Orlando will be a serious threat to secure Caldwell-Pope's commitment Sunday night when free agency officially begins," Stein wrote.

KCP is a proven veteran starter at 31 years old with two NBA Championship rings to show for his efforts on the court in his 11-year career. In two seasons with the Nuggets, Caldwell-Pope has shot 41.5 percent from deep and averaged 10.4 points per game.

Caldwell-Pope opted out of his Denver contract's $15.4 million player option on Thursday, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

As for the Magic, the team could use some improvement when it comes to shooting threes. Last season the team ranked near the bottom of the NBA in 3-point field goal percentage and was tied for last in 3-pointers made.

According to Spotrac, the Magic have roughly $50 million in salary cap space to make moves this offseason. One such move that the team could choose to do is replacing its starting shooting guard, Gary Harris, who will also be a free agent. 

Given KCP’s reputation as one of the league's better three-and-D players, as well as his experience as a two-time champion, Orlando could benefit by adding him in free agency.

NBA teams can begin negotiating with free agents on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET.

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