What is the number one thing the Orlando Magic should accomplish or keep in mind heading into the trade deadline?
Black: Accomplish: Get a point guard. Keep in mind: Do not trade Nikola Vucevic, perimeter defense.
Rossman-Reich: Obviously number one is not to sacrifice any long-term assets for a short-term Playoff berth. The Orlando Magic should not even think about trading one of their big three. And the goal should also be not to get worse. So trading Terrence Ross or Nikola Vucevic for spare parts is also out. I feel like the Magic have such a tricky balance. But they need one more rotation player — maybe a point guard who can fit the long term. My focus at the trade deadline would be on adding depth. Maybe I am willing to take on a long-term salary if he can be a solid rotation player. But I am not looking to disrupt a lot. I just want to upgrade the bench.
Orlando Magic
Palmer: I think it is a bit too early to ask that question. The Magic are currently in the midst of playoff contention but their recent offensive output, should it continue will have them out of the race by the deadline. If the Magic are out of the playoff race it would be wise to consider trading the likes of Nikola Vucevic or Terrence Ross. But if the Magic are still contending for a playoff spot come February, they absolutely need to find a better backup point guard option than Jerian Grant. Obviously, I would not jettison much for a different backup point guard. But if the right deal came along for a potential future starting point guard, you might want to consider it based on the draft compensation that would be given up. Additionally, the Magic may want to look at the G-League or China to see if any shooting wings become available for the team. They need that spacing badly.
Racine: The Orlando Magic should make a trade. That would be an accomplishment in itself. Last year, they seemed to stay put and only traded Elfrid Payton for a second-round pick. The Magic have pieces to get good value in return. They can get a point guard of the future. There seems to be a ton available in the likes of Markelle Fultz, Dennis Smith Jr., D’Angelo Russell and maybe Lonzo Ball potentially on the market.