The Magic Insider

Orlando Magic Attempted Trade For Highly Pursued Free Agent At Deadline

Andrew Cherico|
Mar 14, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) works around Minnesota Timberwolves forward Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) in the third quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
Mar 14, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) works around Minnesota Timberwolves forward Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) in the third quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images | Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

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Orlando Magic

A few days ago, NBA insider Marc Stein reported the Orlando Magic were among those interested in unrestricted free agent Nickeil Alexander-Walker.

But according to new reports, this pursuit of the Minnesota Timberwolves guard started way earlier. Despite being quiet at the trade deadline, the Magic attempted to trade for Alexander-Walker, according to HoopsHype senior insider Michael Scotto.

"Thus, having to pay Randle and Reid has many teams across the league with the non-taxpayer mid-level exception licking their chops to make a run at Alexander-Walker," Scotto wrote. "Including the Orlando Magic, who made a run at trying to acquire him before the trade deadline, HoopsHype has learned."

The veteran guard averaged 9.4 points and 3.2 rebounds last season, shooting 38 percent from 3-point range. He was among the top five finalists for the 2024-25 Sixth Man of the Year.

His free agency value boosted after appearing in all 82 games the last two seasons and delivering strong playoff performances. After earning $4.3 million last season, he could receive the full non-taxpayer midlevel exception, worth $14.1 million. With its lackluster backcourt, Orlando needs a durable offensive guard.

"Various executives around the league who spoke with HoopsHype are projecting Alexander-Walker, 26, to garner the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception or close to it in free agency," Scotto wrote. "Therefore, there’s a consistent belief from executives around the league that Minnesota won’t be able to ultimately keep the trio of Randle, Reid, and Alexander-Walker unless they get creative."

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Andrew Cherico
ANDREW CHERICO

Andrew Cherico is an avid NBA and Orlando Magic fan who has covered the University of Central Florida football, basketball and baseball for the past few years as a student.

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