SRB - More playing time leaves Darko Milicic weighing up options

ORLANDO (NBA) - With speculation growing about his future, Darko Milicic wants to stay with the Orlando Magic.

The Serbia international can become a restricted free agent in the summer, but is hoping the Magic make him an offer to stay.

"I like this team, I do. I like the city. I see myself here," he said in the Orlando Sentinel. "I hope I will be here. I hope Otis (GM Otis Smith wants me to stay here."

Orlando appear to be waiting for other teams to set a price on Milicic’s new contract, and the 2.12m center admits he will listen to other offers that come in.

He was close to a five-year, $40 million deal with Orlando last summer, but the team got cold feet, and that has left Milicic in a stronger negotiating position as his minutes and performances improve on the court.

"Now I have other teams (who can sign me) and I will talk to them," he said. "They (the Magic) didn't want to sign. That's why other teams have a chance."

Still only 21, Milicic has time to live up to the promise that persuaded the Detroit Pistons to make him the second overall pick in the talent-loaded 2005 draft.

Having wasted away on the bench in Detroit, Milicic has been handed his chance my Orlando. He has got into double figures in five of his last seven games, earning a starting role for the game against the New Jersey Nets on Saturday.

Getting regular playing time is making this feel more like his rookie season, he says.

"Yes, like my rookie year. I feel much better. I feel more comfortable than when I was coming in (last season in a trade with the Pistons). It was kind of new, and it was like, 'How am I going to do?' I feel confident and comfortable."

FIBA
Ian Parker