3 players the Orlando Magic should target in the trade market

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LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 27: Josh Richardson #0 of the Dallas Mavericks gets past Luke Kennard #5 of the LA Clippers at Staples Center on December 27, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. 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 aImages License Agreement. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) /

Honorable Mentions

Josh Richardson, Dallas Mavericks

At the top of this list is Josh Richardson. The swingman for the Dallas Mavericks has only played nine games due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols and a calf injury. But as a 3-and-D player, his services are coveted by almost every team in the league.

In order to trade for Richardson, the Orlando Magic would most likely have to give up Evan Fournier or Aaron Gordon along with picks in order to make the deal worth it for Dallas. Richardson is making $10.9 million with a player option for $11.6 million next season.

Even though the Mavericks, similar to the Magic, are underperforming, they are still in contention for the top of the West. They will most likely only make moves that bring them closer to the Finals.

Joe Harris, Brooklyn Nets

Recently signed to an extension, Joe Harris has quickly become one of the league’s best 3-point shooters. Harris is excellent off the catch and is a capable cutter.

This year he is shooting 47.3-percent from three on 6.5 attempts per game. His fit alongside the Brooklyn Nets’ big three has so far caused no problems. For this reason alone, the Nets will most likely not be willing to part ways with Harris.

The Orlando Magic would also need to give up a substantial amount to match salaries and also put together a package the Nets will take. Harris signed to a four-year, $72-million contract with $3 million in unlikely bonuses.

In order to match that, the Magic would need to at least have Gordon or Fournier included, just to match salaries. This deal between the two teams is unlikely.

P.J. Tucker, Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets have struggled to build momentum after the James Harden trade. On paper, their roster is enticing, especially since Christian Wood is putting up All-Star numbers. However, P.J. Tucker, arguably one of the Rockets’ most valuable players is unhappy.

After not agreeing to an extension with the Rockets, Tucker has been floated in trade rumors. He will most likely end up on a title contender if traded, but Tucker’s services would be beneficial to the Magic’s offense and defense.

Despite his smaller stature (6-foot-5), Tucker is often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. His ability to neutralize all five positions makes him a versatile defender.

His three-point shooting is also something that the Magic could use, especially at the forward spot. Similar to Harris, a deal between the Magic and the Rockets is unlikely due to each team’s differing needs.

Tucker makes $8 million this year and will become a free agent in the offseason.