David West and Ian Mahinmi (Photo : Getty Images)
David West and Ian Mahinmi could have a reunion with Frank Vogel in Orlando, with the two players appearing as possible free agents the Magic could target this summer.
The Magic have made a bold move to becoming contenders after hiring Vogel as the team's next head coach following the resignation of former coach Scott Skiles, who guided Orlando to 35 wins and 47 losses during the 2015-2016 regular season.
Heading into free agency, the Magic will have the chance to improve their youthful but inexperienced roster by adding veteran presence. According to Mike Tuck of Sports Talk Florida, two of the possible free agent targets are Vogel's former Indiana Pacers players West and Mahinmi, who are both set to explore the market in July.
West and Mahinmi played together in Indiana under Vogel for three seasons. West became an integral part of the Pacers' success over the span of four years, while Mahinmi flourished as an effective big man during his stint with the 42-year-old coach.
With both players familiar with Vogel's system and seemingly in good relationship with the former Pacers coach, the Magic could have an opportunity to sign West and Mahinmi as veterans to lead Orlando's pack of young talents.
Vogel revealed in his introductory news conference a description about free agents the team should preferably pursue in the summer market. According to Brian Schmitz of the Orlando Sentinel, Vogel was probably describing West in his statement, citing a veteran whom the Magic's young players will respect.
"Well, we need some tough guys. Some tough guys that are leaders, and I think bringing in a guy that has a presence about him that the younger players will respect, both with his presence, his voice, his approach," Vogel said.
"But also the ability to kick some tail on the court, to deliver on the court, that's the best way to lead."
West had plenty of rest with the San Antonio Spurs, coming off the bench on limited minutes all-season long. Despite his age, the 35-year-old power forward should still be able to contribute at the four spot, playing behind Magic rising star Aaron Gordon.
Meanwhile, Mahinmi could also provide leadership at the center position, which was his primary role before earning a starting gig in the past season. The 29-year-old big man should be a decent backup to Nikola Vucevic and should instantly be effective in Vogel's playbooks.
The Magic only have a projected max cap space of $26.8 million heading into the summer. According to Real GM, such amount would suffice for nine guaranteed contracts or four free agent signings. If West and Mahinmi would be available for a reasonable price, the Magic should be able to capitalize in landing the pair of frontcourt talents.
