Cash-strapped Orlando is trying to right a wrong in the offseason

As the NBA trade deadline approaches next month, Orlando Magic are exploring a cost-saving move aimed at addressing an offseason signing that didn’t produce the expected return. According to Stein Line’s Jake Fisher, Orlando has begun gauging the market for backup guards Tyus Jones as payroll considerations intensify.

“Sources say the Magic have invited several teams to explore the possibility of trading backup guard Tyus Jones for some second-round capital,” Fisher reported. “Such a move would be motivated by luxury tax concerns, as the Magic’s payroll would only increase after recent contract extensions for Paolo Buncher, Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs and their significant offseason trade to acquire Desmond Bain.”

Jones, 29, signed a one-year, $7 million deal with Orlando last offseason after establishing himself as a permanent backfield option in recent years. Over the past two seasons, Jones averaged more than 10 points and five assists per game while shooting 41.4 percent from three. That production didn’t carry over into his first season with the Magic.

Through 40 games, including eight starts, Jones is averaging 3.2 points and 2.4 assists in 16.5 minutes per game. These numbers represent his second-lowest points and assists averages since the 2016-17 season with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He’s shooting 35.3 percent from the field and 29.5 percent from beyond the arc, numbers that have limited his impact in Orlando’s rotation.

A magical cost-saving move as long-term core expansions boost wages

The financial motivation behind a potential move is closely tied to the Magic’s long-term commitments. The franchise has invested heavily in its core, starting with Paolo Banchero, who signed a five-year, $239 million rookie max deal which could reach $287 million during the 2030-31 season, including a player option in the final year.

Jalen Suggs agreed to a five-year, $150.5 million rookie extension in October 2024, Doc Franz Wagner received a five-year extension for $224 million in July 2024, which could rise to $269 million. Orlando’s payroll was further boosted by its offseason trade for Desmond Bain, who is in the middle of a five-year, $207 million max extension signed with the Memphis Grizzlies in July 2023.

With those contracts on the books, the Magic seem focused on maintaining flexibility while remaining competitive. Moving Jones for a future second-round asset would offer modest financial relief without disrupting the team’s core rotation.

on the field Orlando (22-18) prepares for its NBA Global Series scheduleopens against Memphis (17-22) Thursday at 2:00 PM ET on Prime Video in Berlin, Germany. The two teams will meet again Sunday at 12:00 PM ET on Prime Video in London, United Kingdom, as the Magic continue to balance short-term results with long-term financial planning.