Grade the trade: Orlando Magic add sharpshooter in mock Buddy Hield deal

Grade the Trade: Should the Orlando Magic chase Buddy Hield?

Should the Orlando Magic make this trade?

Buddy Hield solves the Orlando Magic’s biggest weakness. He will shoot 40 percent from 3-point range on massive volume and average at least 15 points per game. There would be defensive concerns and rotation questions, but if Orlando wants shooting, Hield is one of the best in the world.

Cole Anthony’s improvements in year three are intriguing. But the Magic just drafted Anthony Black, who has more size and defensive upside. Anthony too will be a restricted free agent this offseason and could be asking for a big price tag — although certainly lower than what Hield is seeking.

Coach Jamahl Mosley cannot play Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, Cole Anthony and Anthony Black in the nightly rotation. Trading a guard for a wing could help the Magic solve those issues.

Gary Harris is making $13 million on an expiring contract and is likely entering his final season with the Magic because of this backcourt glut. There should be zero issues with trading him to upgrade to Hield.

Orlando has all of their own draft picks plus two additional first-rounders, so they have capital to move. This deal is far from perfect, though.

Grade: C-

Buddy Hield is finishing a four-year, $94-million contract and is already 30 years old. He does not exactly fit the Magic’s timeline and NBA salaries are only going up. The Magic may be able to convince him to take $20 million per season, but even that is a massive number to have on the books as they need to begin paying their young core.

The Magic should avoid making this trade unless they believe they are a playoff team in 2024. They need shooting but should focus on finding someone who better fits their timeline.