A three-team trade is the way to go with Aaron Gordon for Orlando Magic

This trade deadline feels like the time for the Orlando Magic to finally move on from the core that has been in place for the past few seasons.

With Evan Fournier’s contract expiring in the offseason and Aaron Gordon reportedly keen on a move elsewhere, Orlando has an opportunity to look toward the future as Markelle Fultz and Jonathan Isaac prepare to return to the court next year.

As it stands, Gordon looks the most likely to move on.

The Athletic has reported the Magic’s versatile forward would like a move elsewhere and he requested a trade back in February. There are many teams said to be interested in his services.

This is not new, though. Gordon has long been linked with a move away from the team that first drafted him in 2014 and the Orlando front office will only make a trade if they feel like the return is both fair and makes sense for the team going forward.

How to construct that deal will be the trick. There are certainly plenty of suitors, but with the Magic holding the prize everyone wants, they have to be intentional and purposeful in building the team they want moving forward.

As the Orlando Magic ponder trade offers to move Aaron Gordon, the three-way trade could be the best path to get a deal done and maximize their forward’s value.

Despite their complications and complexity, Orlando should be calling everyone to make a deal happen and should be willing to construct three-team deals to ensure they net the best return.

A three-team deal for Gordon would open up more options for the Magic and increase the chances of getting the right return for the 25-year-old. The fact that next year is the last of Gordon’s current deal gives interested teams more power in the trade, but Orlando should still be seeking multiple assets back.

Reports of a good young player and a pick or a veteran and picks are exactly what the Magic should be looking for. They may have to sacrifice somewhat if a deal is to be agreed before the deadline but there is not a ton of pressure to rush through a deal. The draft could also be a good time for a Gordon trade.

But if this season does prove to be the time for him moving on, these three-team trades represent what the Magic should be looking to get back in a deal…