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NBA Trade Speculation: Could Orlando Magic make a push for Kenneth Faried?

By Brett David Roberts

Mar 12, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Brian Shaw talks with Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Denver Nuggets defeated the Orlando Magic 120-112. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 12, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Brian Shaw talks with Denver Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (35) against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Denver Nuggets defeated the Orlando Magic 120-112. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kenneth Faried, a former Morehead State standout is averaging 11 points and nine rebound per game in just 27 minutes a night. Faried has more upside than those numbers indicate.  And the numbers indicate a lot.  His senior year at Morehead, he led the NCAA in rebounding with 14.5 per game.

The Rodman-like numbers may not quite take hold firmly, but he has had 25 rebounds and 26 points earlier this season on Dec. 27, 2014.  So, the potential to take games over on the glass is there for him. He is not going to take shots from other players or require shots to be successful. Full games are not flashes.

Manimal’s energy and intangibles rival that of long-time Magic fan favorite Bo Outlaw. He will be an impact player long past when his legs deteriorate, because he plays hard and is not afraid of contact down low. Much like Outlaw, chasing down loose balls, getting deflections and forcing disruptions within an opposing offense are all areas in which Faried excels.

Faried can change a defense on his effort alone.

Due to his great athleticism he finishes well around the hole and until this season had never shot worse than 54 percent from the floor. He needs a change in scenery and the Magic need him.

With the Magic seemingly afraid to box out, Faried would be a breath of fresh air in cleaning the glass. Per-36 over his career, Faried has averaged 12 rebounds and 1.7 steals/blocks. He is not a shot blocker per sé; but he is a shot changer. The two are not mutually exclusive.

Next: What about Wilson Chandler?