McGrady to Join the Orlando Magic
O R L A N D O, Fla., July 13, 2000 -- — At least for now, Magic coach Doc Riversexpects free-agent forward Tracy McGrady to be in an Orlandouniform next season.
After wavering between Orlando, Chicago and Miami during thepast week, McGrady has settled on signing with the Magic, his agentsaid Wednesday night.
Arn Tellem told WPTV-TV in West Palm Beach that he expects the21-year-old former Toronto Raptors star to sign with the Magic onAug. 1, the first day of the free agent-signing period. Tellem saidMcGrady, from nearby Auburndale, wanted to be close to home.
“There’s no place like home,” Tellem said.
Heated Negotiations
During McGrady’s first visit to Orlando, he said he wanted tosign with the Magic. But when he visited Chicago last weekend, hesaid those reports were exaggerated.
With McGrady seemingly undecided, the Miami Heat joined thepursuit this week. Center Alonzo Mourning called McGrady onTuesday, causing him to reconsider the Magic and the Bulls. McGradythen said he planned to sign with the Heat.
The Heat tried Wednesday to pull off a seven-player,sign-and-trade deal that included P.J. Brown and Jamal Mashburn inexchange for McGrady and Antonio Davis.
Meanwhile, Rivers made another strong push, meeting with McGradyto try to get a firmer commitment. For now, it appears to haveworked.
“I think we have him — today, anyway,” Rivers told The OrlandoSentinel. “I guess we don’t really know until Aug. 1, but I feelgood.”
Decision Has Been Made
As a free agent, McGrady can’t sign a contract until next month.But he says he’s already made his choice — again.
“I’ve made my decision. I’ve told the team I’m going to,” said McGrady, who averaged 15.4 points and 6.3 rebounds last season withthe Raptors. “Hey, Alonzo called again. I don’t know what hewanted. I didn’t return the call.”
McGrady said a formal announcement could be made by Friday.
He likely will sign a six-year contract for the NBA maximum of$67.5 million, joining Grant Hill, who already has committed toplay for the Magic.
Free agent Tim Duncan also announced plans for next season thisweek, saying he will remain in San Antonio.
The Heat are expected to try to sign Charlotte Hornets swingmanEddie Jones. After spending Tuesday in Miami, Jones was in Orlandoon Wednesday.