Tim Povtak of the Orlando Sentinel reports: The preliminary trade talks they have had involving Danny Fortson, Nazr Mohammed and Marcus Fizer -- any of whom could improve their frontcourt for next season -- will be put on hold until the Orlando Magic get a closer look next week at center Rashard Griffith.

Griffith, the 6-11 center from Wisconsin who has played in Europe the last six years, was obtained on draft night from Milwaukee. In what was a mild surprise, he agreed to be part of the Magic's summer-league team that was designed mostly for rookies and younger free agents.

Also playing will be second-year center/forward Steven Hunter, and both will be evaluated closely before the Magic sign any free agents or make any trades.

"With both of them playing, it surely will paint a better picture for us what our needs really are," said Magic General Manager John Gabriel. "It will help us move forward with moves we need to make, whether it's signings or trades. We'll have a better idea after the summer league."

The Magic finished last season with a glaring need for more frontcourt help, yet they believe Hunter could be vastly improved and provide some of that help. And they also believe that Griffith, 27, might be as good a center as anyone available through free agency or in trade this summer.

The Magic, in the meantime, have been talking with various free agents and other teams about centers and forwards already under contract.

First, the trade talk.

Chicago is asking for Mike Miller in any deal for Marcus Fizer and/or Jamal Crawford.

Atlanta would likely want Miller for Mohammed.

However, Povtak mentions that Fortson is expendable and can be had without Orlando giving up Mike Miller but for future draft picks (which Orlando has plenty of) and lesser players.

Now, the free agent front.

The Magic also are looking at the option of not making a trade and strengthening their frontcourt by signing veteran Charles Oakley to a one-year deal, which would allow them to maintain significant salary cap flexibility for next summer.

Oakley, 38, isn't the player he once was, but he still could provide the toughness the Magic need, along with some help in rebounding. Although his first choice is to join the Los Angeles Lakers, they have been luckwarm with their interest. His second choice is Orlando, and he has told the Magic he would sign for the veteran minimum of $1 million.

"Money is not an issue with him anymore," said Billy Diamond, Oakley's business manager. "It's about winning."