Magic guard DeShawn Stevenson told the Sentinel he wants a better contract and might have to exercise his option to play elsewhere next season.

Stevenson can become a free agent this summer by opting out of his three-year, $8.2-million deal that expires after the 2006-07 season.

He will make $3 million next season with the Magic if he stays, an amount he might be able to beat in free agency.

"I'm looking to take care of my family even more," Stevenson said. "I'm not saying I don't have the money now, but, you know, just being even more secure . . . because anything can happen next year with a three-year deal."