The Orlando Magic reportedly aren’t ready to offer Anthony Black the same five-year, $110 million contract extension that Brandin Podziemski received from the Golden State Warriors. With both young guards represented by agent Bill Duffy, Podziemski’s deal has become an important reference point in Black’s negotiations.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Orlando has not yet been willing to meet the $22 million annual average attached to Podziemski’s new contract.
Brandin Podziemski’s Deal Could Influence Anthony Black’s Future
Golden State secured Podziemski with a five-year, $110 million extension, a significant investment in the 23-year-old guard’s future. The deal averages $22 million annually and helps the Warriors avoid having him reach restricted free agency next summer.
Podziemski averaged 13.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game during the 2025–26 regular season, playing all 82 games.
Black, meanwhile, made a major jump in production for Orlando. The 22-year-old averaged 15.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists across 64 games in 2025–26, according to NBA statistics.
Those numbers give Black a strong argument in the negotiations. However, comparing the two players involves more than looking at their scoring averages. Teams also evaluate availability, shooting, defensive impact, projected roles and how a contract fits within their salary structure.
Why the Magic Could Be Taking a Cautious Approach
Orlando must consider its broader financial commitments as it builds around its young core. The Magic previously signed guard Jalen Suggs to a five-year, $150.5 million extension in 2024, adding another major contract to their books.
Black’s potential is clear, but the Magic must determine whether his next deal should reflect his recent production or the level they believe he can sustain over several seasons.
If the two sides cannot agree to an extension before the October 19 deadline, Black could enter restricted free agency in 2027. That would give Orlando an opportunity to retain him, although the process could invite competing offers and create more uncertainty.
Magic president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman has indicated that extensions do not always get completed immediately, leaving the door open for negotiations to continue beyond the current window.
Should Orlando Pay Anthony Black $22 Million Per Year?
There is a case for both sides.
Black is young, productive and still developing. His 15.0 points per game last season represented a substantial increase from the 9.4 points he averaged in 2024–25. His ability to contribute as a scorer, playmaker and defender gives Orlando reasons to view him as part of its long-term plans.
On the other hand, committing $110 million is a major decision, especially for a team balancing multiple significant contracts. The Magic could prefer to see another season of development before committing at that level.
The question is whether Orlando can reach an agreement that reflects Black’s upside without compromising its flexibility to build a championship contender.
For now, Podziemski’s contract has established a notable comparison point, but it does not automatically determine Black’s market value.
What do you think? Should the Orlando Magic pay Anthony Black $22 million per year, or should the team wait to see what he does next season?
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