John Denton of the Florida Today reports: The Magic could have as many as seven free agents from last season's team. John Amaechi has opted out of his contract, while Andrew DeClercq and Troy Hudson could do the same today. Dee Brown, Monty Williams, Don Reid and Cory Alexander are without contracts.

Steve Wyche of the Washington Post reports: Mitch Richmond's career with the Washington Wizards officially ended yesterday when the team bought out the final two years of his contract for $10 million.

Richmond signed a four-year, $40 million deal signed before the 1999-2000 season. The team has the option of paying Richmond, 36, in a lump sum or paying him $5 million now and $1 million installments over the next five years, according to a team official.

Though the move costs the Wizards a hefty sum for a player who won't be on their roster next season, it will clear $10 million off the payroll the following season and help the team clear room under the salary cap next summer. Washington could have more than $12 million in salary cap space to pursue free agents next summer.