Gary Harris – Orlando Magic
One very intriguing name that could very well become a free agent via a buyout agreement this season is Gary Harris.
Last season, the Magic were big “sellers” at the trade deadline and in the deal that sent Aaron Gordon to the Denver Nuggets, Orlando received Gary Harris as part of a pretty decent sized trade package.
Now in his 8th season, Harris made a name for himself early on being a “3-and-D” player on the wing and the veteran shooting guard has been playing well this season with the Magic. In 41 games thus far, Gary Harris has averaged 11.6 points, 2.2 rebounds and has shot 36% from three-point range, showing no major limitations from a hip injury suffered in the past.
According to NBA Insider Marc Stein, the Magic are widely expected to trade Terrence Ross and/or Gary Harris at the trade deadline, but interest in Harris is very minimal given his contract.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Players Most Likely To Be Moved At NBA Trade Deadline
While he is in the final year of his contract, Harris is making $20.4M this season, making it almost impossible for any contending team to trade for him without giving up key assets in return.
Harris can still be a difference-maker and an impactful role player for a playoff team, but his trade value is low as a result of some durability concerns and his $20M contract this season.
Should the Magic be unable to move Gary Harris at the trade deadline, they could very well advance into talks about a buyout agreement. Orlando is expected to get Markelle Fultz back from injury at some point during the second half of the season and with Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs being two young, standout performers in the backcourt already, they really have no need for Harris anymore.
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Trade interest in Gary Harris is low right now, but sources have told NBA Analysis Network that the Bucks, Lakers and Celtics would be interested in adding the 27-year-old shooting guard for the rest of the season should he be bought out of his current contract.
The Athletic’s John Hollinger has also talked about the possibility of Gary Harris being bought out of his current contract in Orlando and mentioned the Brooklyn Nets as a team evaluating his production.
