Magic waive three players

The Magic have waived Malaki Branham, JD Davison and Kevin Knox, the team announced, leaving all three with a potential opportunity in the G League.

Each was on an Exhibit 10 contract and can earn a bonus of up to $91,000 by spending at least 60 days with the Osceola Magic.

All three appeared in Orlando’s four preseason games, though the minutes were limited. Branham averaged 11.0 minutes, Knox 9.9 and Davison 7.8.

Branham and Davison entered the NBA in the 2022 draft. San Antonio selected Branham 20th overall out of Ohio State, while Boston took Davison at No. 53 out of Alabama.

Knox brings the most NBA experience. The ninth pick in 2018 has played seven seasons in the league but spent all of last season with the Windy City Bulls.

He was productive there, averaging 21.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 39 games while shooting 41.4 percent from beyond the arc.

Orlando’s payroll left little room to keep another player on a standard deal. The Magic sit approximately $2.5 million below the second tax apron. Retaining any one of the three would have reduced that cushion to roughly $47,000.

The moves point toward Orlando beginning the season with an open standard roster spot. Branham, Davison and Knox, meanwhile, could continue their push for another NBA opportunity with Osceola.