Orlando Magic re-sign fan favorite Moe Wagner to a 1-year, $5M contract after declining his $11M option. The energy big man aims to bounce back from a torn ACL that cut short his career-best season.
Magic Lock In Wagner at Discount After Strategic Free Agency Move
The Orlando Magic have secured Moritz "Moe" Wagner on a one-year, $5 million deal, bringing back the high-energy big man after initially declining his $11 million team option. The move allows Orlando to retain a key rotation player while maintaining financial flexibility under the NBA’s first apron threshold.
Why This Deal Makes Sense for Both Sides
For the Magic:
· Saves $6 million vs. the original option
· Retains Wagner’s Bird Rights for future negotiations
· Adds depth behind Paolo Banchero & Wendell Carter Jr.
· Preserves culture with a locker-room leader
For Wagner:
· Chance to rebuild value after injury
· Continuity in a system where he thrived
· Potential playoff role on ascending team
Wagner’s Career Year Cut Short by Injury
Before tearing his left ACL in December 2024, Wagner was
having a breakout
season:
12.9 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 36%
3PT (all career highs)
2nd in NBA bench
scoring (trailing only Payton Pritchard)
20+ point games (2),
30+ point explosion (32 vs. Knicks)
His infectious hustle made him a fan favorite, with coach Jamahl Mosley praising his impact:
"Moe embodies our identity—no one wants to face us because we play hard every night."
Road to Recovery & 2025-26 Outlook
Wagner is rehabbing aggressively with a target return for opening night. Magic president Jeff Weltman expressed confidence:
"He’s progressing on schedule. Knowing Moe’s work ethic, we expect him back strong."
His return bolsters a Magic team shifting to "win-now mode" after back-to-back playoff trips. With Desmond Bane added via trade, Orlando aims to fix its 27th-ranked offense while keeping its elite defense intact.
Magic’s Roster & Financial Picture
· 13 players under standard contracts
· $195.9M first apron hard cap after using part of MLE on Tyus Jones
At just $5M, Wagner is a low-risk, high-reward re-signing. If he regains pre-injury form, this could be one of the offseason’s steals
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