Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal 

Still, if this is a gamble for the Thunder, it’s an outright risk for the Magic. 

They’d be excusing themselves from the Victor Wembenyama sweepstakes. For that reason alone, this deal could give them pause. In all likelihood, this comes down to their confidence level in their recent number one pick Paolo Banchero. 

If the Magic feel that they’ve got their franchise player, they could see the benefits in getting back to competitive basketball ahead of schedule. No, Banchero won’t be ready to lead a competitive NBA team in 2022-23. On the other hand, Gilgeous-Alexander may be absolutely dying to. 

Following this deal, the Magic would have one of the most intriguing young one-two punches in the NBA. Moreover, they’d have quality pieces surrounding their duo in Franz Wagner, Wendell Carter Jr., Cole Anthony, and others.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder & Orlando Magic Updates

In fact, if Wagner hit his ceiling, we might be talking about Orlando’s Big 3 sooner rather than later. For what it’s worth, those are some promising-looking eggs.