The Magic Insider

Magic Predicted To Create Fearsome Big Three By Acquiring $215 Million All-Star In Blockbuster Trade

Dec 29, 2023; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) and forward Paolo Banchero (5) celebrate their 117-108 win against the New York Knicks at KIA Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2023; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) and forward Paolo Banchero (5) celebrate their 117-108 win against the New York Knicks at KIA Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images | Mike Watters-Imagn Images

The Orlando Magic's need for a star alongside the forward tandem of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner is obvious after being gentleman's swept by the Boston Celtics in the first round.

No one expected the Magic to come out on top against Boston, but that's what Orlando is striving for: compete against the best the Eastern Conference has to offer. The Magic had a top defense in the league this season, but their offense outside of Banchero and Wagner left much to be desired.

While their backcourt is full of tenacious defenders, it severely lacks a leader and primary scorer. Enter a blockbuster trade idea from FanSided, which predicts the Magic will acquire Atlanta Hawks All-Star guard Trae Young.

This deal would allow the Magic to form quite a fearsome Big Three, strong enough to rival the Celtics, Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, and others. If there's any situation where Young's defensive flaws could hide, it's Orlando. Jalen Suggs would likely head to Atlanta in this scenario, but Cole Anthony, Anthony Black, and others could nicely complement the former top-five pick.

Young's offensive impact is undeniable, as he averaged 24.2 points and 11.6 assists on 41.1 percent shooting in 76 appearances in 2025. He is used to playing alongside a strong lob-threat big man, which the Magic have to an extent in Wendell Carter Jr.

Worries have rightfully arisen about Young's ability to thrive in a system not centered around him, but Orlando truly appears the perfect landing spot to avoid these concerns.


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Anthony Pasciolla
ANTHONY PASCIOLLA

Anthony Pasciolla is a sports journalist who began covering the NBA in June 2023. A Philadelphia native, Anthony has experience covering the Philadelphia 76ers as a credentialed reporter. He has written for Miami Heat, Back In The Day Hoops, Kansas State Wildcats, and Illinois Fighting Illini on Sports Illustrated. His work also includes 76ers coverage for The Sporting News and previous stories for Athlon Sports and BasketballNews. When he’s not covering the NBA, you can find him spending time with friends and family or diving into the world of fantasy football. Follow him on X @AnthonyPasci or reach him via email at ampasciolla@gmail.com

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