The deadline for eligible players to sign extensions has come and gone, and Evan Fournier and the Orlando Magic were unable to come to an agreement. There were reportedly some talks about a possible deal but they didn't get very far, so Fournier will become a restricted free agent next summer. However, it still seems likely that Fournier will be with the Magic long-term, according to Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel.
The Magic have yet to win a game so far this season, but they have played three very good teams extremely close and have lost each game by an average margin of three points. Fournier has not shot the ball well to start the season, but he is averaging 14.7 points and 4.7 rebounds through three games. The 23-year-old French guard was acquired by the Magic in 2014 in the trade that sent Arron Afflalo to the Denver Nuggets, and the Magic view him as a key future piece for a young team that is on the come-up.
The Magic are very deep on the wings, and because of that it didn't seem like Fournier was going to get too much playing time this season. But he instead earned a starting spot and has played significant minutes so far. The Magic are high on Fournier, and Fournier has reportedly said he wants to remain in Orlando long-term, so the fact that there was no extension is no reason to worry.
It wouldn't have made much sense for Fournier to agree to an extension now, as he will have the opportunity this season to increase his value with a lot more playing time heading into an offseason where the salary cap will balloon. Fournier could have gotten an extension done for financial security, but his value now is not where it likely will be at the end of the season.
Next summer Fournier will be a restricted free agent, which means that the Magic will be able to match any offer he receives on the open market. While the Magic won't be able to set the price for Fournier, they will have every opportunity to keep him, and all indications right now make it seem like they will.
