Would this trade make sense for the Orlando Magic?
The Orlando Magic were a postseason team in each of the last two seasons coming in. It got away from them early, and they decided to sell at the NBA trade deadline. It worked, considering they finished with the fifth and eighth overall selections in the 2021 NBA Draft.
Now, they rely on a young backcourt and could look for that leader on and off the floor. Gordon Hayward could be that voice if they want to take on his contract.
Jalen Suggs looks like the real deal, and Cole Anthony was solid during his rookie season. Outside of that, the Magic could look to retool the roster, and that is what they would be doing by sending away some expiring contracts.
The Magic must surround Suggs with respectable talent that takes the pressure off him to maximize his development. Hayward can be a leading scorer in the short term as Suggs makes strides in his development early.
With Jonathan Isaac returning from a season-ending injury, the Magic could end up having an underrated squad by adding Hayward into the mix. Both forward positions would have answers, while Wendell Carter Jr. can hold down the center spot.
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It will be interesting to see if the Magic wants to take on a big contract like Hayward. If they do, the Hornets could be willing to make a deal work.
