Our series of articles looking at who the Orlando Magic could target for a trade in each division continues with the Pacific.
So far we have covered the entire Eastern Conference — the Atlantic, Central and Southeast Divisions — and the Northwest Division — selecting one player from each team that could help improve the Magic next season.
Last season was one that yet again ended in frustration and disappointment, exiting the playoffs in the first round with a 4-1 series defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Making the postseason for a second straight season was an achievement and defensively the team once again looked solid. But at the other end of the court it was a different story.
Steve Clifford’s team ranked just 23rd in offensive rating, scoring 107.9 points per 100 possessions. Their shooting was a huge concern, coming 25th in 3-point percentage at 34.3 percent and 22nd in 3-point shots made per game at 11.1.
The shooting and offensive weaknesses are something that must be addressed if the team is to move forward and not stand still, or worse.
Decisions must be made by the front office over whether to utilize the trade market this offseason. The likes of Nikola Vucevic, Aaron Gordon and Evan Fournier have helped the team move back into the playoff positions but the franchise is now in a position where it must choose the right path forward.
Strengthening at the wing positions with better shooting is something that should be targeted. Fournier had a strong regular season but struggled in the postseason and the team is awaiting his decision on whether he will take up his player option.
A serious injury to Jonathan Isaac also leaves the team short at small forward. The Magic require shooting improvement if they are to stand any chance of progressing.
Orlando could also use some depth at point guard to provide backup to Markelle Fultz, depending on whether D.J. Augustin and Michael Carter-Williams re-sign with the team.
Here is one player from each team in the Pacific that could help the Magic improve next season…
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.