The Orlando Magic were active at the NBA trade deadline last season as sellers. Veterans Nikola Vucevic, Aaron Gordon and Evan Fournier were traded to the Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics, respectively.
Some people were surprised that Terrence Ross wasn’t on the move along with them. Ross survived the trade deadline and was a popular name in the offseason. He wasn’t traded then either and still remains on the team now.
With just about two months until this season’s trade deadline, Ross will likely be one of the more popular names floated around as a trade candidate.
The Magic, who are 5-23, have no real use for a 30-year old sixth man. They are better off giving those minutes to their younger players to help their development.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Celtics-Magic Trade Lands Terrence Ross In Boston
Orlando should have no problem finding a new home for Ross, as there should be plenty of suitors. Acquiring him will come at a price, however, as the Magic are looking for at least a first-round pick in return according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
“The Magic have sought draft capital — such as a first-round pick — in talks for veteran swingman Terrence Ross, sources said,” Charania wrote. “Ross is averaging 10.8 points this season. He scored 22 points on Saturday at the Clippers.”
Ross is one of the most explosive scoring options off the bench in the NBA and has some impressive scoring feats to his name. He was the first player in NBA history to have a 50-point game that didn’t average at least 10 points per game for the season.
He moved into a bench role full-time during the 2018-19 season and excelled instantly. In that season, Ross became the first player to knock down at least 200 3-pointers without starting a single game.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Celtics-Magic Trade Lands Terrence Ross In Boston
In the early stages of a rebuild, it makes sense that the Magic would look to trade Ross. They are looking to acquire as much draft capital and assets as they can to help build the foundation of the future.
With so many injuries to their backcourt, the Orlando Magic could decide to wait until they are a little healthier to move on from Terrence Ross. Markelle Fultz and Jalen Suggs are both sidelined currently but will have significant roles upon their return to the lineup.
