Kofi Inkoom
The Orlando Magic and guard Cole Anthony have reached an agreement on a three-year deal worth $39 million, reports Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
Cole Anthony, selected 15th overall in the 2020 draft, has dedicated his first three NBA seasons to Orlando, appearing in a total of 172 regular season games during that period.
In his initial two seasons, he started in 99 out of 112 games, but in the 2022/23 season, he primarily came off the bench.
In the 60 games he played last season, he averaged 13.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 25.9 minutes per game.
Looking ahead to the 2023/24 season, the Orlando Magic anticipate a crowded backcourt, with notable lottery picks such as Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, Anthony Black, and Jett Howard all competing for playing time.
However, the extension for Cole Anthony signals that Orlando intends for him to maintain a significant role in the team’s rotation moving forward.
The terms of Cole Anthony’s contract extension are in line with the deal signed by another young guard, Coby White, who was a restricted free agent this summer.
White, who plays for the Chicago Bulls, secured a three-year, $36 million contract, which could potentially reach $40 million with incentives.
It’s yet to be confirmed whether Anthony’s extension includes any additional incentives or options.