5 questions the Orlando Magic must answer in the third quarter of the 2022 season
5 questions for the Orlando Magic’s third quarter of the season
Who stays and who goes at the trade deadline?
The midpoint of the season brings with it the focus on the trade deadline. The Feb. 10 deadline is sure to bring some movement around the league. And the Orlando Magic are likely to be among the team actively shopping at the deadline.
The Magic, being at the bottom of the standings and lacking a true star to build around yet, are likely going to be sellers. And they certainly have two players that playoff teams will be looking to acquire to improve their position before the postseason.
Gary Harris and Terrence Ross are both great shooters who would add tons of value to the playoff race. It feels almost certain the Magic will move one or both of them at this deadline. Especially with Harris’ expiring deal.
Orlando could also be looking to move Mo Bamba before he hits restricted free agency. But gauging which teams would be interested in acquiring him and his restricted free agent rights is tough.
It is even possible the Magic are thinking of matching any offers on him and bringing him back.
Harris and Ross are the more likely players to move because of their value as shooters. what playoff team does not need shooting?
After getting off to a slow start to the season, both found their rhythm in the second quarter of the season.
Harris averaged 16.2 points per game and shot 48.6-percent from the floor with 43.0-percent shooting from deep in the second quarter of the season. This was probably the best Harris has looked offensively since his breakthrough 2018 season and before injuries seemed to sap him o consistency beyond his strong defense.
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Harris was always capable of being a great 3-and-D player. But his 3-point shooting struggled mightily in the time since. Harris has looked on balance and aggressive. Even with an expiring contract ahead of a down free agency season, there should be playoff teams lining up for him to join their postseason push.
The same will be said for Terrence Ross.
Like Harris, Ross got off to a slow start. But in the second quarter of the season, Ross averaged 17.2 points per game. While he shot worse than 30-percent from deep, he was still a dangerous floor spacer. And everyone knows he is perfectly comfortable in that bench role.
Ross’ extra year on his contract makes this the perfect time to deal him to get the maximum return for him.
Reportedly, the Magic have been asking for a first-round pick for each player. Likely there will be some protections coming if that is indeed what the Magic get. They also would have to take on some salary. Whether that means giving a player a second chance or a buyout candidate might depend on the team the Magic ultimately deal with.
But the Magic will have something to sell at the trade deadline. It would be hard not to see them do something by the time Feb. 10 comes around.
Orlando just needs to make sure it gives them something to keep building on for their future.