Magic opt to save cap space in waiving Nelson

Jameer Nelson (AP)

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic have waived veteran guard Jameer Nelson.

The move, announced on Monday, ends the run of the Magic’s longest-tenured player at 10 seasons.

Nelson was selected by Denver 20th overall in the first round of the 2004 draft, but was acquired by Orlando in exchange for a future first round pick on draft night.

He played in 651 regular season games in Orlando with 556 starts, averaging 12.6 points and 5.4 assists, and posting one All-Star season in 2009.

Nelson was entering the final year of a three-year contract, but had only $2 million of the $8 million remaining guaranteed. By waiving Nelson before July 16 the Magic are saving valued salary cap space.

He could re-sign with the Magic, but he’s expected to garner free agency interest.

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