Orlando Magic Trade Value Column 2016

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Nikola Vucevic, Orlando Magic, Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans

Dec 28, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) tries to block Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic (9) during the first quarter of a basketball game at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Nikola Vucevic, $48 million/4 years

On a team that is based so much on potential, Nikola Vucevic is Mr. Reliable.

The team can count on him for a double double almost every game. His offensive game makes him unique among centers and very difficult to defend. He works well in the pick and roll and his jumper is difficult for centers to track down.

Offensively, Vucevic is about all you could ask for from a center, except for maybe a penchant to stay away from the post on occasion.

Vucevic has flaws for sure. Defensively he is not a good rim protector at all. While he does a good job when he is in position, he does not do a good job keeping out drivers or guarding the pick and roll. His inability to hedge has been an issue for the team in its defensive schemes. It ultimately keeps him from achieving all-star status.

Still, Vucevic is a unique center. And he is on one of the most affordable contracts for a player with his value and production. A team in need of a center would gladly take him. Even as a stop gap.

Vucevic is still a good player in his own right. The Magic would be foolish to let him go without getting anything significant in return. But moving forward, they have a very valuable asset.

Next: No. 1 Aaron Gordon