5 best free agents Orlando Magic could target in 2024
Orlando Magic chase after sharpshooting Buddy Hield
If the Orlando Magic want to go all-in for some shooting, then they will have the chance to try and lure Buddy Hield from the Indiana Pacers.
Hield is an interesting target because Orlando could either elect to start him or bring him off of the bench. Either way, he would have a solid role carved out.
The former No. 6 overall pick is coming off of a solid season in Indiana. He averaged 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game while knocking down 45.8 percent of his attempts from the field and 42.5 percent of those from deep.
Shooting is such a key skill in the modern NBA, teams are more than willing to shell out some cash in order to add a sniper to the team.
By bringing in Hield, the Magic would be doing just that. The 30-year-old would be an excellent fit next to Orlando’s young core. He would not demand too much of the ball, and the threat he provides from distance would keep opposing defenses from collapsing on the team’s projected stars.
Hield being interested in joining a budding young team like the Magic would not be the most shocking thing in the world. It would offer him one of the first experiences of his career to be a part of a competitive team.
Orlando could likely entice Hield with a two-year deal worth about $40-50 million. The front office probably would not want to offer anything longer than that in order to remain flexible as the Oklahoma alumnus continues to age.