NBA Trade Rumors: Magic Keeping or Shopping Gary Harris?
ORLANDO - Orlando Magic guard Gary Harris knows what it's like to be dealt at the trade deadline.
A little less than two years ago, Harris (along with R.J. Hampton) were traded from the Denver Nuggets to the Magic for Aaron Gordon.
But while Harris' name has popped up sporadically in trade talks this cycle, it appears he might be safe for now.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Magic prefer to hold on to Harris beyond Thursday's 3 p.m. trade deadline.
Harris, 28, is one of the oldest players on the team, something the Magic value about him. He's also been by far the Magic's best outside shooter, making 46.7 percent of his threes this season. For a team that struggles to shoot from deep, Harris has been a much-needed force in that department.
Since serving his one-game suspension for leaving the bench in the infamous Detroit Pistons brawl back in December, Harris has played and started in every game for the Magic since. He's averaging 8.9 points and 2.1 rebounds per game.
The Magic signed Harris to a two-year, $26 million contract in the offseason. His $13 million for this season is guaranteed, but next year's isn't on lock until June 30.
The Magic can cut Harris without owing him a penny of next year's payroll if the team cuts him before free agency. But given the way he's playing and the value he's brought to Orlando, there's a good chance he could not only stay with the Magic beyond the deadline, but next season as well.
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