The Orlando Magic have acquired forward Trevor Ariza and the expiring contract of guard Anfernee Hardaway from New York in exchange for guard Steve Francis, Assistant General Manager Otis Smith announced today. In addition, the team has waived forward Bo Outlaw.

?As an organization, you always look for ways to improve your team, both presently and in the future,? said Smith.  ?The moves we have made today and last week (Darko Milicic and Carlos Arroyo from Detroit) continue to build a solid foundation around our core players, such as Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson.  In addition, this particular deal has allowed us to gain significant salary cap flexibility in the future.?

?The moves we have made during the last few days are geared to grow and improve our team,? said Magic Head Coach Brian Hill.  ?Trevor (Ariza) is a young, athletic small forward, who will fit in defensively with what we are trying to accomplish.  I genuinely like Steve as a person and wish him nothing but the best.?