NBA Trade Idea: Magic's Jonathan Isaac for Pistons' Bojan Bogdanovic?
This Orlando Magic young core is by all accounts ahead of schedule.
Following a 22-win campaign two seasons ago, the franchise was awarded the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft where it selected eventual Rookie of the Year winner Paolo Banchero.
However, even more eye-opening was Orlando's turnaround - finishing 34-48 including above .500 over the final 57 games.
And with playoff implications this upcoming year, could the Magic be an aggressive trade partner to make those hopes a reality?
NBA Analysis Network suggests the idea of the Magic sending Jonathan Isaac and a 2025 first-round pick to the Detroit Pistons for Bojan Bogdanovic.
"Both of these teams may be rebuilding. Don’t make the mistake of assuming they’re in the same boat," NBA Analysis Network writes. "The Pistons were the worst team in the NBA last year. By contrast, the Magic showed a lot of progress. With that in mind, it could be time for this team to consolidate some assets and shift into win-now mode. Between Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and others, they may have their core moving forward.
"Why not add some shooting to it? Sure, Bogdanovic is older than their core. If the Magic are ready to start winning games, that’s less relevant. When Bogdanovic ages out of his prime, they’ll need to replace his skillset. Basically, they’ll need someone who can put the ball in the basket."
The No. 6 pick in 2017, Isaac averaged 2.3 blocks and 1.6 steals over 34 games in 2020-2021 before a torn ACL put an abrupt halt to that promise. And despite suiting up in 11 games last season, he has been no stranger to trade rumors this offseason.
While acquiring the sharpshooting of Bogdanovic, who posted 21.6 points on 41.1 percent from distance could plug in an immediate need to this young Magic core.
And while sacrificing an original piece to this multi-season rebuild would be a big price, it could be the price needed to become a contender.
You can follow Riley Sheppard on Twitter @RileyDSheppard.
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