Who the Orlando Magic could target for a trade in the Atlantic Division

Brooklyn Nets: Caris LeVert

Caris LeVert has continued to develop during his time with the Brooklyn Nets and had his best-ever season this year, averaging 18.7 points per game.

As part of a depleted Nets squad that went to the Orlando Bubble and made it to the postseason, LeVert showcased his tremendous ability. He hit 37 points in the loss to the Portland Trail Blazers and 35 in the Game 4 loss to the Toronto Raptors in the playoffs.

He averaged 27.4 points per game in March before the season was postponed thanks somewhat to a monster 51-point game against the Boston Celtics where he went from 5 for 10 from three.

At 26, the shooting guard still has plenty of time to keep getting better and could yet become a big-time scorer. His three-point shooting this season was his best yet at 36.4 percent while his field goal percentage stood at 42.5.

The Nets made two huge moves last offseason, bringing in Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. It leaves new head coach Steve Nash with an abundance of good options at both guard spots and at small forward.

Caris LeVert will also have to compete with the likes of Spencer Dinwiddie, Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot and Joe Harris, if the latter decides to re-sign with the franchise. Even if he gets ahead of these, will he really want to be the third option on a team where his number of shots will also be limited?

His offensive ability could help the Magic enormously. He has a contract with Brooklyn until 2023 worth a total $52.5 million which could prove to be good value if he continues to get better.

It is clear the Nets rate him highly and just giving up a player like Gordon would be unlikely to get the deal done. The Magic would probably have to sacrifice a good draft pick and even that might still not be enough.

One thing that would work in the Magic’s favor however is Brooklyn could certainly use another power forward on the roster. Durant is most effective at small forward and a competent defensive player and an athletic threat like Gordon could help them to contend for a title.

But Orlando should not take losing Gordon lightly. He still has room to develop and has been an important player behind breaking the six-year spell outside of the playoffs. The front office would need to be confident that LeVert can continue on an upward trajectory.