NBA Draft Rumors: Magic Trade 'Chatter'?
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ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic holds the Nos. 6 & 11 picks in the NBA Draft, which kicks off in just about three weeks. However, by the end of the draft, it's possible that the Magic may not have players from those two draft slots.
"There's been some chatter that the Magic might not keep both of their lottery picks," ESPN writes. "They should certainly have options if they choose to try to move around."
A trade for the Magic is certainly plausible given the team's position. Orlando has most of its rotation returning from last year ...
Guards: Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, Cole Anthony, Gary Harris (likely, despite a non-guaranteed deal), Caleb Houstan
Forwards: Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, Jonathan Isaac, Bol Bol
Centers: Wendell Carter Jr.
That's already nine people added in the rotation, and there's potential for the team to re-sign Moe Wagner to back up Carter. Adding two high draft picks to this group is counterproductive for the Magic, and for the rookies joining the team. This means that Orlando has reason to find a new home for at least one of these picks.
Perhaps the Magic use the picks to trade up, or the team deals one away to acquire a veteran that can help the team contend for the playoffs this season. Either way, it should surprise no one if Orlando is busy working the phones leading up to draft day.
The NBA Draft takes place Thursday, June 22 at 8 p.m. on ESPN.
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