Making the Case: Orlando Magic
If the Orlando Magic pulled this trade off or something similar, General Manager John Hammond would have to be viewed as a bona fide Jedi from that point forward. This trade makes perfect sense for the Magic if they like two or more of the prospects at the draft equally, about the same, or don’t even know which is their favorite.
This deal would take the pressure and responsibility off of their hands. It becomes a true coin flip if they’re stuck between two players for their choice with No. 1 overall pick.
If they can’t decide between Chet Holmgren, Jabari Smith Jr., and Paolo Banchero, they could even pursue more assets in return in a trade with the Houston Rockets for the third pick.
This deal also makes sense if they start to hear the buzz that the No. 1 prospect on the Magic’s draft board doesn’t match up with OKC’s. If the Magic know that they can still land their preferred player with the second pick, why not accrue additional assets in a trade as well.
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In a draft class with a consensus top prospect, like in 2019 with Zion Williamson or 2012 with Anthony Davis, a trade of this ilk would be seen as reckless and irresponsible. But with this year’s crop of talent, the Magic have the opportunity to repeat what Former Boston Celtics President Danny Ainge did in 2017: trade down, garner additional assets, and still come away with the best player.
