Grade the trade: Orlando Magic add sharpshooter in mock Buddy Hield deal
By Tyler Watts
Grade the Trade: Should the Orlando Magic chase Buddy Hield?
Laying out a mock trade that sends Buddy Hield to the Orlando Magic
The Indiana Pacers have Tyrese Haliburton and are hoping to help him develop into a superstar. He made his first All-Star appearance in 2023, and the 23-year-old is just getting started.
Indiana will want some rotation help in return for Hield as the team has its own postseason ambitions after just missing out on the Play-In Tournament last year. The Magic have a glut of guards and could look to clear it by upgrading.
Jack Simone of 8 Points, 9 Seconds laid out a possible Buddy Hield trade from the Pacers perspective that looks like this.
Cole Anthony and Gary Harris could immediately slot into the Pacers’ rotation. Anthony is a potential sixth man whose efficiency improved last season. Harris has struggled to stay healthy in recent years but is a plus-shooter when on the floor.
The Pacers add some depth and get a first-round pick. There were no specifics on what selection, but it would likely be lottery-protected or the Denver Nuggets’ 2025 first-round selection that the Orlando Magic own that is top-20 protected.
It is a strong haul for Buddy Hield’s expiring contract. The 6-foot-4 guard needs to be locked up long-term or is strictly a rental for the coming season. It only makes sense for the Magic if he is a piece of their future. Should they be willing to give up three assets and pay Hield?