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In a surprising move, the Orlando Magic waived Jameer Nelson on Monday, the team announced in a press release. Nelson had been with the Magic for his entire NBA career after Orlando acquired his Draft rights from the Denver Nuggets in 2004.
"Jameer is the ultimate professional,” Magic general manager Rob Hennigan said in a written statement. "We truly thank him for his contributions to the organization, both on the court and in the community, during the last decade. He will always be a member of the Magic family."
Only $2 million of Nelson's $8 million salary for the 2014/15 season is guaranteed, meaning Orlando saved $6 million in cap space in waiving the veteran point guard.
In his 10 Magic seasons, Nelson appeared in 651 games, second-most in team history. He also ranks third in minutes played, fourth in points, eighth in rebounds, first in assists, and fifth in steals.
Nelson made the following remarks via the team press release announcing his waiving.
"I appreciate the opportunity the Orlando Magic has afforded me and my family over the past ten years. I'd like to thank the DeVos family, team management, and all the coaches that have provided me guidance, mentoring, and the ability to play the game that I love in the town that I love.”
"I'd also like to give sincere and special thanks to the great Magic fans. You have loyally supported me since my first day in Orlando and have always been there for me and my family. You made it easy for us to adopt Orlando as our second home and we will miss you."
"All good things must come to an end, however, and it's time to move on. I look forward to continuing my career as an NBA player and will never take for granted my time in Orlando."
Earlier Monday, the Magic also cut ties with another guard by waiving Doron Lamb.