John Denton of the Florida Today reports: Toronto Raptors power forward Antonio Davis said before Tuesday's season-opener against Orlando that he appreciated the Magic's interest in attempting to sign him this past summer, but such a scenario never came close to materializing.
Orlando targeted the rugged 6-foot-9, 240-pounder last summer, even visiting Davis' southwest Orlando home just minutes into the free-agent period. But with only the $4.5 million veteran exception to offer, the Magic were never a serious contender in the Davis sweepstakes. He eventually signed a seven-year, $64 million deal to return to Toronto.

"I appreciate their efforts," Davis said. "I appreciate that they were very honest with me and that they took the time to show some interest."

In other news Doc Rivers had some words for Milwaukee Bucks Head Coach George Karl.

Rivers is still fuming that Karl questioned the Magic's loyalty two seasons ago when they pursued free agents Tracy McGrady and Grant Hill. The two coaches exchanged barbs repeatedly in the playoffs.

Before Tuesday's opener, Rivers took yet another verbal swipe at Karl. He questioned how loyal the Bucks were to center Scott Williams, who was traded to Denver last week to clear room for the acquisition of forward Anthony Mason.

"The next time George Karl starts talking about loyalty go ask Scott Williams what he thinks," Rivers said. "Don't give me a loyalty speech about my team and then go out and do what you did to Scott Williams."