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Where Daniel Orton Planting a Community Garden Happens

Gary Bassing - Orlando Magic; used with permission
Gary Bassing - Orlando Magic; used with permission

Orlando Magic center Daniel Orton, along with team representatives, Amway employees, and volunteers, spent some of today planting a sprout garden at the Universal Orlando Foundation Boys & Girls Club "in conjunction with the NBA Cares Week of Service." Here's more on that effort, via a team press release:

With the start of the NBA season just weeks away, every NBA team will host a variety of hands-on service events through Oct. 25 in a collaborative effort to give back to children, families, and the community and to increase fan awareness about the importance of service.

The NBA Cares Week of Service aligns with President Obama's recent launch of the United We Serve initiative (serve.gov), which seeks to expand the impact of volunteer work in existing organizations and encourage individuals to make a difference in their communities. Fans can find out about volunteer opportunities and learn more about the NBA's community partners by going to NBA.com/nbacares.

Orton might not see much playing time this year due to his place on the depth chart behind All-Star Dwight Howard and overqualified backup Marcin Gortat. Moreover, his knee, which he injured in his senior season from high school, limited him in Orlando Pro Summer League play in July and in his summer workouts. According to John Denton of OrlandoMagic.com, Orton likely won't even be ready for training camp, which starts in 10 days.

Fortunately, the Magic knew of the former Kentucky Wildcat's limitations when they made him the 29th overall selection in this year's NBA Draft, with team GM Otis Smith saying Orton is "a big guy you don't necessarily have to use today" the night of the draft.