Magic, 76ers Eyeing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope In Free Agency

After a playoff run that ended with the Denver Nuggets being eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals, the Denver Nuggets must take the proper measures to field a sufficient supporting cast around Nikola Jokic to contend for another NBA championship.

One of the critical factors the Nuggets have to sort through is the impending free agency of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who may be challenging to retain given the level of interest he’s lined up to command from around the league.

According to Marc Stein, the Orlando Magic are reportedly considering signing Caldwell-Pope in free agency, and the Philadelphia 76ers are also showing interest.

“Sources say Philadelphia and Orlando are weighing runs at Caldwell-Pope with their cap space if, as increasingly expected, he declines his $15.4 million player option with the Nuggets to enter free agency and field richer offers,” Stein reported.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Denver Nuggets, Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic Updates

Caldwell-Pope averaged 10.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game last season, playing a vital role in the Nuggets’ championship run in 2023. His highly efficient perimeter shooting ability, while being a legitimate motion shooting threat and quick trigger option in transition, make him a valuable threat in the Nuggets’ offense. He often takes on the challenge of guarding the opposition’s top perimeter threat.

For the Magic, Caldwell-Pope could be a valuable addition as they continue to build around young Paolo Banchero. Orlando pushed the Cleveland Cavaliers to seven games in the first round of the playoffs, demonstrating their potential to become a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. Adding more perimeter shooting is an essential next step for the Magic.

However, the team currently lacks veteran leadership, and Caldwell-Pope, with championships with the Los Angeles Lakers (2020) and the Nuggets (2023), could provide that experience. His presence could be crucial in helping the young Magic squad learn how to advance further in the playoffs.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Denver Nuggets, Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic Updates

The Magic were previously linked to Klay Thompson with his time with the Golden State Warriors, but it faded into the background. While Thompson would have been a substantial addition, Caldwell-Pope still offers significant benefits to help the Magic improve.

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