In the whirlwind 2016 offseason, one of the league’s biggest moves was the trade of long-time Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Victor Oladipo.

An integral two-way part of the contending Thunder teams of recent past, it seemed odd Ibaka was moved, especially when he provided so much for the team. However, there had always been some concern whether true or not regarding his role in the squad diminishing year after year, especially after players like Enes Kanter and Steven Adams became more so prevalent in the team’s production.

Ibaka never bought into these claims. However, he was still moved as the team sought out a young gun in Oladipo.

Serge Ibaka, in his own SI article, stated:

“I never asked to be traded, even though there was a lot of media conjecture that I was unhappy with my role. I had an exit meeting with Billy Donovan and Sam Presti after the season, and both went well. But this is still a business, everybody has to do what’s best for them, and I let my agent deal with the business side of things.”

“Right now, though, I feel like a rookie again. I’m thrilled to be in Orlando. I know that might sound crazy to some people, that I’m excited to go from a contender like the Thunder to a rebuilding team, one that hasn’t made the playoffs in four years, but playing now for Frank Vogel, a coach who prides himself on defense, is very exciting for me.”

On the positive side, look for Ibaka to be a real producer in Orlando as his impact and utilization goes up exponentially. An excellent mid-range shooter and finisher around the rim, he will be able to play off young passing dynamo Elfrid Payton.

Last season, Ibaka averaged 12.6 points, almost seven rebounds, and 1.9 blocks on 48% shooting. All these numbers are expected to go up this year.

Optimistic about the change, anticipate Serge Ibaka to put forward a better step as the Orlando Magic calls on him to do more in their front court.