Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports
Magic Starting 5: Raptors PG Fred VanVleet to Orlando?
1. FRED VANVLEET CONNECTED TO MAGIC AGAIN
"VanVleet may be able to get Jalen Brunson-level dollars ($26 million per season), but his best path to a playoff contender could be to opt in and extend," Bleacher Report writes. "Under the incoming rules, VanVleet can sign an extension in July as part of a trade with a starting salary for 2024-25 as high as $32 million.
"Otherwise, he may find viable suitors as an unrestricted free agent in the Jazz, Magic or Rockets."
"The Orlando Magic was proven time and time again throughout the season that it made the right choice taking Paolo Banchero with the No. 1 overall pick."
"Over the past two games, every time it has appeared that the Knicks were going to make things competitive, Miami has simply been better. Whether it be key shots (especially a three-pointer), an offensive rebound, a New York turnover, or simply a defensive stop, the Heat have been a step ahead."
Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST on TNT.
"Game 5 gives a new opportunity for both teams to display their great skills once more. We expect that the Warriors will deliver a strong performance to make a comeback and keep the series interesting. However, if you’ve seen the Lakers' gameplay in this series, particularly their performance last night, it is apparent that the Warriors will face a difficult challenge in winning by a large margin."
Tipoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. EST on TNT.
5. NBA DRAFT LOTTERY COUNTDOWN
The Magic is six days away from the NBA Draft Lottery, where it will be revealed if Orlando will have the opportunity to take Victor Wembanyama with the No. 1 overall pick.
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