Who the Orlando Magic could target for a trade in the Central Division
By Dan Bennett
In the latest of our series of articles looking at potential trade targets for the Orlando Magic, we identify one player from each team in the Central Division.
We have already looked at potential targets for the Orlando Magic in the Atlantic Division that could go at least some way to addressing the Orlando Magic’s weaknesses.
The franchise faces an uncertain offseason where the front office must determine the team’s future path. Choices must be made on the futures of key players such as Aaron Gordon and Nikola Vucevic and whether or not to make use of the trade market.
After two consecutive first-round playoff exits, the Magic are looking for a way forward. Defensively this season the team was solid, ranking tied for 10th in the league in defensive rating, giving up 109.2 points per 100 possessions, and ranked eighth for both steals and blocks.
But there were serious offensive weaknesses on display. Injuries played their part during the regular season and the postseason series against the Milwaukee Bucks but a lack of strong shooting was also to blame for the team’s seeming lack of progress.
The Magic ranked just 23rd for offensive rating, scoring 107.9 points per 100 possessions. They were 25th in 3-point percentage at 34.3-percent and 22nd in 3-point shots made per game at 11.1. They were also 27th in field goals made per game with 39.3 percent.
If the front office is to look to the trade market this offseason then the lack of offensive talent and strong shooters is something that must be addressed. With Evan Fournier’s future still unclear and Jonathan Isaac likely out for all of next season, Orlando should look to strengthen at the wing positions with better shooting.
Orlando could also use some depth at point guard to help out the developing Markelle Fultz depending on whether D.J. Augustin and Michael Carter-Williams re-sign.
Here is who the Magic could look to target in the Central Division to try and improve the team.
Eds. Note: The deals proposed here are for instances and examples of what it might take to acquire these players. They do not reflect any actual reporting or indication either team is interested in such a deal.