Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
As mentioned, the Magic seem to prefer Wendell Carter Jr. to Bamba. This deal has them officially making a choice.
Frankly, it’s not hard to see why they might. Carter Jr. is a more versatile defender – he can protect the rim in drop coverage, but he can also survive in space. Furthermore, Carter Jr. brings an element of playmaking to this team that Bamba doesn’t. He’s a solid passer for a big man.
Still, Bamba is probably a starting-caliber player. Big men who shoot 3s and defend the rim don’t grow on trees. If the Magic don’t plan on using him accordingly, they might as well get some value for him while they can.
With that said, they can’t do this deal – yet. Thaddeus Young isn’t eligible to be traded until January 15. Still, it’s worth the wait for Orlando. Young is a quality veteran presence that this young team would benefit from adding.
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Of course, the first-round pick is the main draw for the Magic here. Yes, it’s protected, but it’s heavily likely to convey. After all, this is a Raptors team on the rise, and as we’ve seen, their players tend to surpass expectations.