Ex-Gorman star Watson gets $15 million deal from Magic

C.J. Watson is a seven-year NBA veteran who is joining one of the league’s youngest teams. And the former Bishop Gorman High School standout couldn’t be happier about it.

Watson, 31, signed a three-year, $15 million contract Thursday with the Orlando Magic. Of thta, $11 million is guaranteed, $5 million in each of the first two years and $1 million in the third year.

“I just thought it was the best situation at the time, to come in with a young core group that they have and hopefully just try to be a positive impact to the team and hopefully get them to the playoffs,” Watson said.

Orlando will be Watson’s fifth NBA stop since he came into the league as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2008 with Golden State. He also has played in Chicago, Brooklyn and Indiana, where he spent the past two seasons.

Watson is coming off one of his best seasons, having averaged 10.0 points, 3.6 assists and 2.3 rebounds in 24.9 minutes per game. He has career averages of 7.8 points, 2.5 assists and 2.0 rebounds.

The Magic, who finished 25-57 last season, will look for similar numbers along with his ability to shoot from outside. Watson is a career 38 percent 3-point shooter.

“I bring shooting, defense and experience,” he said. “I’ll do whatever Coach (Scott Skiles) needs me to do. I know he’s an intense guy, and it’ll be great trying to learn from him.”

His productivity with the Pacers enhanced his marketability. The Magic are looking for a veteran to groom their young guards — Elfrid Payton and Victor Oladipo. The 6-foot-2-inch Watson, who plays both backcourt positions, should be the perfect fit.

“I’ll try to show them how to be a professional, how every game counts,” Watson said. “I’m not a teacher. I’m just going to try to set a good example for our young guys.”

Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913. Follow him on Twitter: @stevecarprj.