Note From The Underground

At first glance the hiring of Hall of Famer Julius Erving as an executive vice president was a solid move that, among other advantages, gave coach Chuck Daly a familiar basketball face to huddle with over strategy. But Magic sources say Dr. J was also brought onboard to be a confidant and mentor to Penny Hardaway (right), who has an escape clause after next season. In light of the fan backlash that the franchise experienced after Shaquille O'Neal walked away, re-signing Hardaway—and keeping him happy until then—has become a priority.