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Andrew Nicholson's time with the Orlando Magic is likely coming to an end.
According to ESPN's Zach Lowe, the Magic are not expected to extend a qualifying offer to the fourth-year big man, making him na unrestricted free agent come July 1st. Nicholson was the first draft pick made by Rob Hennigan after he was hired following the tumultuous lockout shortened 2011-12 season.
Apologies if this has been reported, but Magic NOT planning to extend a qualifying offer for Andrew Nicholson, sources say. Unrestricted FA
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) June 28, 2016
The report that the Magic won't extend a qualifying offer to Nicholson should come as no surprise. After playing well his rookie season, the crafty post scoring big man slowly fell out of favor amongst the Magic's big men.
Add in the fact that the Magic just acquired Serge Ibaka from the Oklahoma City Thunder, and not extending a qualifying offer makes even more sense.
Despite the addition of Ibaka, the Magic will still need to find another power forward for depth purposes. With the potential to have upwards of $45 million in cap space this summer, the Magic will have countless opportunities to make impactful moves.