The Orlando Magic have announced they waived forward Linton Johnson III, per this brief press release:
The Orlando Magic have waived forward Linton Johnson, GM Otis Smith has announced today. Johnson appeared in five preseason games with the Magic, averaging 1.6 ppg. and 1.0 rpg. in 4.8 minpg.
Orlando’s roster now stands at 13 players. Orlando opens the 2009-10 regular season tonight vs. Philadelphia. Tip-off is 7 pm ET.
The announcement comes a mere three days after the Orlando Sentinel reported the Magic would retain Johnson to maintain their depth; Johnson could have taken the Magic's 12th active roster spot in order for Adonal Foyle (knee surgery) and Rashard Lewis (suspension) to stay on the inactive list. Now, it seems likely Foyle will appear on the active roster, but will not be available to play. Lewis will take Foyle's spot once he's eligible to return from his suspension.
UPDATE: Tania Ganguli provides Smith's explanation for the decision to waive Johnson:
otis smith said foyle's rehab is going well, and there weren't enough practice days coming up 2 justify keeping linton johnson around #magic
UPDATE 2: Gah, I had some facts wrong. Rashard Lewis is suspended, but by rule, he must be on the active roster. Thus, Adonal Foyle will remain inactive during his injury, and (probably) long afterward.