Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal

We’ll start with why the Orlando Magic don’t do the deal: to land Russell Westbrook.

It’s hard to anticipate what might happen between Westbrook and the Magic following this deal. Keeping him on the roster could have its benefits. Between Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, and Markelle Fultz, the Magic have plenty of young, high-potential point guards. Westbrook could be a valuable mentor.

Of course, it’s that same positional depth that would keep the Magic from finding significant playing time for Westbrook. That’s unlikely to sit well with the veteran. For that reason, he’d probably be a strong buyout candidate following this trade.

On the other hand, every team isn’t keen to agree to a buyout. The Magic may opt to simply sit Westbrook for the season.

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Realistically, they won’t be too concerned with what happens with him regardless: From their point of view, they’re moving an injury-prone Isaac and two veterans for a first-round pick and a swap.