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Orlando Magic Top 30: The Most Popular Player in Orlando Magic history

By Philip Rossman-Reich

BOSTON, MA - 1994: Dennis Scott #3, Anfernee Hardaway #1, Shaquille O'Neal #32, Nick Anderson #25, and Jeff Turner #31 of the Orlando Magic return to the court during a game played circa 1994 at the Boston Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1994 NBAE (Photo by Dick Raphael/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - 1994: Dennis Scott #3, Anfernee Hardaway #1, Shaquille O'Neal #32, Nick Anderson #25, and Jeff Turner #31 of the Orlando Magic return to the court during a game played circa 1994 at the Boston Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1994 NBAE (Photo by Dick Raphael/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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24. Ryan Anderson (2010-12)

It is hard to be involved in a trade to replace one of the most popular players in the league and become one of the supremely popular players in Orlando Magic history yourself. The Courtney Lee–Vince Carter trade is one Magic fans still debate endlessly. Plenty still lament breaking up the 2009 team, even if financial reality called for it.

Vince Carter had the clout and the popularity he brought with him. Carter still gets a lot of that around his home in Central Florida. But the bonus of that deal was the acquisition of Ryan Anderson.

At the time, Anderson was coming off an up-and-down rookie year. He felt like a throw-in to the deal. Instead, he became a critical part for the Magic not only in that strong 2010 year but also to the team’s future.

Ryan Anderson was a 3-point shooting savant, helping stem the tide during Rashard Lewis‘ suspension. He demanded playing time and soon replaced Lewis in the lineup. He was every bit as effective offensively with his 3-point shooting. A reliable floor spacer.

But his personality made him truly stand out. He was a constant on the Magic’s online television shows, showing off his talent of catching grapes to go with his great shooting.

He had everything everyone could love. A relatable skill, a goofy personality and an openness and joy. There is not a single person within the Magic organization with anything bad to say about Anderson.