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Magic Dealt Blow by NBA Rival on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Malik Brown | Last updated Jul 17, 2025 12:42 PM ET

The Orlando Magic have transformed their team this offseason, as they have plans to take the next step and leave their imprint on the Eastern Conference. They've made strides the past two seasons, advancing to the playoffs, but have been eliminated in the first round both years.

It was obvious after last season that things would change, and that's what they did when they traded for Desmond Bane. In free agency, they signed Tyus Jones to be the backup guard, and he'll give them the offensive punch and playmaking they need off the bench. Soon after, they locked in their cornerstone player, Paolo Banchero, to a contract extension.

With new additions and contract extensions, that means that some players may be on the outside looking in. That's what happened to Caleb Houstan, who was with the Magic but was an unrestricted free agent after the team declined his option. He is now with a new team, and it's a division rival.

"The Atlanta Hawks and Caleb Houstan agreed to a one-year deal, sources told HoopsHype. The 22-year-old shot 50.7% from 3-point range after the All-Star break and has improved his 3-point shooting in each of his first 3 NBA seasons. Agent Jason Glushon finalized the deal," Michael Scotto wrote on X.

Last season, Houstan appeared in 58 games for the Magic, averaging 4.1 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. His specialty is 3-point shooting, where he shot 40 percent. The Hawks have made it a priority to add perimeter shooting this offseason, and they've brought more in the building with Houstan.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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