There are two big problems with that strategy, however. It means the Magic will get worse before they get better. And even if they improve their odds in the draft lottery, they will require luck on top of skillful scouting, wise drafting and patient decision-making. That’s why even Magic CEO Alex Martins acknowledges that bold moves in free agency might be necessary.

“We’re not turning our back on free agency,” Martins said. “We’re just putting the emphasis on our draft that we feel should be the case.”

The Magic could have enough cap salary-cap space to offer a maximum-level deal in free agency next summer, when Thunder shooting guard James Harden is scheduled to become a restricted free agent and Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith is slated to reach unrestricted free agency.

The 2014 free-agency period could pay more dividends for the Magic, who currently have committed just $29 million to salaries for the 2014-15 season.

via Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel