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KCP watched the Orlando Magic from afar. Their presence was felt throughout the league. As they approached free agency, their postseason run and Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers opened doors. Nothing impresses opposition players more than playing that team. And what Caldwell-Pope saw in the Orlando Magic when the Nuggets played them twice last year. He witnessed a hungry team playing all 48 minutes. He observed a tough, physical bunch. The kind of team a free agent must evaluate when he hits the market.

Last year, the Magic were known for their effort. A club that always worked hard and was tough defensively. Caldwell-Pope was impressed by that play. When free agency came, the Magic and Caldwell-Pope suited beautifully. The Magic saw someone who could fill a need and help them improve on and off the court.

Additionally, Caldwell-Pope is a champion. He would not go where others did not share those goals. Caldwell-Pope told Orlando media Saturday, “I’m always chasing a championship,” after announcing his three-year, $66-million deal. It was one of my ideas watching them make the playoffs and take Cleveland to Game 7. That satisfied me. They experienced that pressure and what it takes to advance past the first round. I’m delighted to participate.” After winning titles with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020 and the Denver Nuggets in 2023, Caldwell-Pope is used to winning. Orlando’s decisionmakers understood that experience.

This loose, fun-loving team has a terrific atmosphere, vibes, and aura, yet they want to win. That sometimes requires extra seriousness. Nobody wants to change this team’s nature. But adding a championship-winning athlete doesn’t hurt either. One reason the Magic chased Caldwell-Pope and one of his biggest contributions to a club on the verge of contending is that. “He will make us better defensively,” president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman told reporters Saturday. “He’ll boost our shooting. He will show our young players championship effort. We believe he will be a fantastic complement on and off the field. We’re thrilled to have him.”