NBA Free Agency Rankings: Where's Magic Center Goga Bitadze?

ORLANDO - Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze didn't play much after arriving late to the party in February. However, he made an impact that sparked hope within the team.

Now, Bitadze could face free agency this summer if the Magic declines his team option.

Should he become a free agent, The Athletic ranked Bitadze as the 17th-best center in this year's free agency class.

"Bitadze is a frustrating player because he has a good-looking shooting stroke and some athletic bounce to him, but he’s yet to convert that into a rotation-caliber player," The Athletic writes. "The long-range shooting hasn’t translated to games (25.1 percent career), and his pick-and-roll effectiveness is hurt by the fact that he might be the worst screener alive. Defensively, he can block shots, but fouls too much and can get lost in pick-and-roll coverage."

Bitadze played in 17 games and averaged 5.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. He took over Mo Bamba's spot in the rotation after he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers and was serviceable. At just 23 years old, Bitadze is still developing and could have an impact for the team next season if he stays aboard.

If the Magic finds a better answer in free agency or the draft, which the team very well could, then Orlando may part ways with Bitadze for good. However, the Magic know what it has in him and also see how much he can grow with a little more time.

In this situation, the Magic plays the role of "Father Time" in deciding whether his flashes last season was too little too late for Bitadze or just enough to keep him on for a little longer.

You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.

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