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Come Fan with UsSaturday, August 8, 2026

Orlando Magic hire John Hammond, the man who drafted Giannis Antetokounmpo, as GM

Hammond leaves his job in Milwaukee to join a front office that will be led by Jeff Weltman.

NBA: Milwaukee Bucks-Press Conference
NBA: Milwaukee Bucks-Press Conference
Sam Caravana-USA TODAY Sports

The Orlando Magic have now filled the top two spots in their front office, hiring Bucks general manager John Hammond to a five-year deal as their general manager, according to The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Hammond’s most notable move with Milwaukee was his decision to draft Giannis Antetokounmpo, the 15th pick in the 2013 NBA draft who has emerged as one of the best players in the league.

On Monday, Orlando hired Raptors general manager Jeff Weltman as their team president. Hammond will serve under Weltman in the newly constructed Magic front office.

In April, the Magic fired general manager Rob Hennigan, who had been the youngest general manager in the league. Under Hennigan, the team was well under .500, with a record of 132-248 over four seasons.

Earlier this offseason, it looked like the Magic would pursue Cavaliers general manager David Griffin. Instead, it appears Orlando has found the men it wants leading the franchise.

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