Magic Trade Destination For Raptors' Pascal Siakam?
The Orlando Magic is entering an important year as the young ascending roster progresses toward becoming a playoff team in the Eastern Conference.
While Orlando possesses one of the best young cores in the NBA, the odds they'll be able to keep everyone is slim to none. That holds especially true after the Magic added to a crowded backcourt through the draft with guards Anthony Black and Jett Howard.
But with all of those assets, who could Orlando make a move for?
Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam's name has been thrown around in trade rumors, though nothing has materialized yet. NBA insider mentioned that the Magic could be a potential spot for the two-time All-Star after they were seemingly out of the running for him.
"Orlando was downplayed as a destination almost as soon as it emerged as a reported destination," NBA insider Marc Stein said.
Siakam made the All-NBA second team in 2020 and All-NBA third team in 2022. He was also the NBA's Most Improved Player in 2019.
The 6-9 power forward, who turns 30 years old next year, is coming off the best year of his career offensively, as he averaged 24.2 points along with 7.8 rebounds and a career-high 5.8 assists per game.
Siakam would have led Orlando in points and assists per game in 2023.
Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony are two players who could potentially be on the move in a trade. Anthony is entering the final year of his contract before becoming a restricted free agent, and Suggs has struggled to stay on the court, missing 83 games over the last two seasons. Draft compensation would seemingly be included in any deal for Siakam as well.
Siakam is entering the final year of his contract next season.
At some point, Orlando will have to make a move for a veteran. Siakam can be the veteran presence who knows how to win and can elevate the Magic from being on the fringe of the playoffs to a legit contender in the east.
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