The Orlando Magic are on the rise. Ignore them at your own peril. Sure, the Magic just picked in the lottery. They’re not likely to be there again. This upcoming NBA season, Orlando will be looking to take a step forward.
The team’s offseason has communicated that exact message. The Magic committed to a two-year deal to have Joe Ingles on the roster. This team is done joking around.
Are they done making moves? Time will tell. The Magic may roll out their current roster in 2023-24. On the other hand, we wouldn’t be shocked to see them trade for a veteran. How about Norman Powell of the Los Angeles Clippers?
The Trade Proposal
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac
Orlando Magic Receive: G/F Norman Powell
By contrast, the Los Angeles Clippers may be on the decline. It’s not that this team lacks talent. The Clippers have plenty of it. Unfortunately, that’s not the only variable that NBA teams need to account for.
The Clippers lack durability. Kawhi Leonard is regularly hurt. Paul George is more durable, but still, this is another player who’s prone to injuries. Somehow, the Clippers can’t catch a break.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Norman Powell, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
With that in mind, George is said to be on the trade block. Time will tell whether the Clippers are really going to blow up their core or not. Could they really acquire another injury-prone player in Isaac?
Why The Los Angeles Clippers Do The Deal
The Clippers are taking a risk here. Any team acquiring Isaac would be. After all, he makes Leonard look like Iron Man. Isaac is the epitome of an injury-prone player. Here, we’re assuming the Magic would be giving up on him.
That doesn’t mean the Clippers have to do the same. When healthy, Isaac has looked like a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate. This is a player with limitless potential.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Norman Powell, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
On the other hand, if Isaac can’t get healthy, this is a salary dump. Powell is on a long-term deal, whereas Isaac’s contract is expiring. Should the Magic take on Powell’s money?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
Giving up on Isaac may feel bad. At the same time, the Magic may be ready to do just that. After all, Isaac’s health has been extremely unreliable. In the meantime, the Magic have moved on.
Even if he was healthy, he’d have Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and possibly Wendell Carter Jr. blocking his path to playing time. The Magic don’t need a wing, or a big. What they need is a guard who spaces the floor. Powell can do that, and create his own shot at the same time.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Norman Powell, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Moreover, he provides a veteran presence. The Magic need more than Joe Ingles to provide that voice in the locker room. Adding Powell would benefit this team in a number of ways. He should help them continue to rise.
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