Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal 

By contrast, the Orlando Magic don’t have a problem with playmakers. In fact, they may have too many. 

They certainly have a logjam at point guard. In the 2021 draft, the Magic selected Jalen Suggs. It was the obvious choice, but with Cole Anthony already on the roster, it made for a complicated scenario before factoring in Fultz’s presence. 

Furthermore, the Magic just selected another playmaker with the number one pick in Paolo Banchero. He’s not a point guard, but we can expect the ball to be in his hands frequently. Finally, Franz Wagner proved himself worthy of on-ball reps in 2021-22 as well. 

The Magic could use more play-finishing players. Granted, this deal doesn’t net them any that they’ll be using long-term. Still, Bertans’ floor-spacing could help facilitate the growth of that crop of young playmakers in 2022-23. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dallas Mavericks & Orlando Magic Updates

Still, the real meat of this deal for the Magic is in the Mavericks’ unprotected first-round pick. If they’re lucky, they can use it to land the type of play finisher they ought to be in the market for.