Orlando Magic Receive: 3rd Overall Pick, F/C Christian Wood, 2023 First-Round Pick (via MIL)

Houston Rockets Receive: 1st Overall Pick, G/F Terrence Ross

This trade alludes to the rumors that were relayed in the introductory slide. It’s all dependent on the Orlando Magic preferring Jabari Smith Jr. at the top of the draft, the Houston Rockets loving Paolo Banchero, and the Oklahoma City Thunder giving the nod to Banchero over Chet Holmgren on their big board.

With those three things true, this deal guarantees that the Magic and Rockets get their top prospects and leaves OKC a little shell-shocked. Since Orlando is allowing Houston the privilege of making the first selection in the upcoming draft, the Rockets will have to pay a small fee to jump up two slots.

The Magic add Christian Wood, who is great insurance for both Mo Bamba, in the case that he has his sights set elsewhere, and Jonathan Isaac, who is oft-injured and has appeared more interested in politics than basketball lately. They also tack on an additional first-rounder that is probably slated to land in the late twenties for their trouble.

Houston here sheds a problematic locker room presence in Christian Wood and ensures themselves the chance to draft his preferred replacement in Paolo Banchero.

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Terrence Ross is included for salary reasons but could be a sage veteran for a roster that’s devoid of experienced players willing to take young prospects under their wing.