Gary Harris, Cory Joseph Contract Options Reportedly Declined After Magic's Bane Trade

After trading for Desmond Bane, the Orlando Magic reportedly made some key roster decisions on Monday ahead of free agency.

Per HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, the Magic declined Gary Harris and Cory Joseph's team options for the 2025-26 season. Harris' option was worth $7.5 million while Joseph's was worth $3.47 million.

Harris, an 11-year veteran who was traded from the Denver Nuggets to the Magic five years ago, has seen his role in Orlando decrease gradually over the past few seasons. After averaging double-digit points in his first two seasons with the team in 2020-21 and 2021-22, he put up just 3.0 points per game this year. He played just 14.8 minutes per game off the bench, appearing in 48 contests.

Joseph, who has been in the league for 14 years but joined Orlando last season, also played a limited role for the Magic, posting 3.5 points in 12.2 minutes per game in 50 contests.

The Magic are looking to shed some salary following the addition of Bane. The former Grizzlies star, who cost Orlando Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks and a pick swap, is entering the second year of a five-year, $197.23 million contract. He's set to count for $36.73 million against the cap next season.

Before declining Harris and Joseph's options, the Magic were $6.66 million over the first apron and had just $5.22 million in second apron space, per Spotrac. Declining Harris and Joseph's options will give them a bit more breathing room.

The Magic also have team options for Moritz Wagner and Caleb Houstan. Between those two, Orlando would seemingly exercise Wagner's over Houstan since he's more of a contributor, putting up 12.9 points and playing 18.8 minutes compared to Houstan's 4.1 points and 13.6 minutes, but Wagner's injury history could be a factor since he suffered a season-ending torn ACL in December.

Wagner's option would pay him $11 million next season, while Houstan's option is for $2.19 million. Houstan's the cheaper team option could also bode well for his chances of staying in Orlando.

Even if the Magic decline Wagner or Houstan's options, they could return to Orlando, as could Harris or Joseph, but it would likely be on a cheaper contract.

Regardless of what Orlando decides to do with its remaining team options, it's clear the team has committed to trying to win now. The Magic sacrificed much of their future in the recent trade, and they're hoping to compete for a title with a core of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Bane.