Brooklyn Nets Star Ben Simmons

Brooklyn Nets Receive: G/F Jaylen Brown, F/C Jonathan Isaac, G Markelle Fultz, G Derrick White, 2023 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2025 First-Round Pick (BOS), 2027 First-Round Pick (BOS), 2029 First-Round Pick (Swap – BOS)

Boston Celtics Receive: F Kevin Durant

Orlando Magic Receive: G/F Ben Simmons

The Orlando Magic are not a team most are looking to get involved in the Kevin Durant saga. Could they play the role of facilitator in a three-team deal?

The Brooklyn Nets’ involvement here may hinge on their assessment of Jonathan Isaac. On the one hand, he’s flashed star potential during his time in the NBA. On the other hand, injuries have kept that time limited. If Brooklyn sees his contract as more of a burden than an investment, they may be out on this deal.

Let’s assume they’re buying his upside. In that event, they’re getting proper compensation for Durant here. They get a young star in Jaylen Brown, three quality players (two of whom are on the right side of 25) and a decent amount of draft capital to spare.

Meanwhile, Ben Simmons’ fit with the Magic may not be seamless. After all, they do have Anthony and Suggs on the roster after this deal. On the other hand, the upside could be tremendous.

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Having two point forwards in Ben Simmons and Banchero alongside an agile big man in Wendall Carter Jr. and defensive ace in Wagner should make this group lethal in transition.

If their front office sees that vision, the Magic could shock the world by getting involved in a Kevin Durant trade with the Brooklyn Nets.