Magic promote Smith to GM

Smith and Twardzik were both promoted to the role of assistant general manger on June 27, 2005.

Smith’s new responsibilities will include player acquisitions, player development, scouting and salary cap management. However, Smith has already shown his ability to do that for the Magic in his former role.

The former director of player development helped Orlando acquire center Darko Milicic and guard Carlos Arroyo from Detroit in February and followed that move up a week later by getting guard Anfernee Hardaway — along with his expiring contract — and forward Trevor Ariza from New York for guard Steve Francis.

"In a short amount of time, Otis has done a tremendous job in regards to player acquisitions, while at the same time, setting us up for the future," said Magic president Bob Vander Weide. "He brings a wide range of experience, great energy, dedication, leadership and vision to our basketball operations."

Smith helped the Magic lock down future talent by signing forward Dwight Howard and guard Jameer Nelson to contact extensions while also extending forward Tony Battie’s deal.

Prior to joining Orlando, Smith spent the 2002-03 season as executive director of basketball operations for the Golden State Warriors. He also spent three years as a player for the Magic, including their inaugural season in 1989.