If an NBA player’s career gets off to a rough start, they may need a change of scenery. Sure, every team would like to keep all the players they draft. That’s simply unrealistic. Sometimes, a player lands on a team that does not suit him.
Does Cole Anthony of the Orlando Magic need a change of scenery? It’s possible. Anthony has certainly flashed potential in his NBA career. At the same time, Orlando doesn’t feel like his final home. This team has a logjam of talented young guards. Recently, reporting has suggested that Anthony could be the odd man out.
Where should he land next? Well, landing alongside an elite veteran playmaker could be helpful. If Anthony could focus on scoring as an untraditional point guard, he may be able to play to his strengths. How about LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers?
The Trade Proposal
Orlando Magic Receive: G/F Cam Reddish, G/F Max Christie, 2024 Second-Round Pick (LAC via LAL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Cole Anthony
What about when a player gets a change of scenery and still doesn’t thrive? What if they get another after that? At some point, we’ve got to give up on a player, right? Should we be giving up on Cam Reddish?
We wouldn’t go that far. Reddish had a better stretch for the Portland Trail Blazers than we’ve seen him have in the rest of his career last season. There’s still hope for him. At the same time, the clock is ticking. Reddish needs a strong season, or his career could be in trouble.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Cole Anthony, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
The Lakers could be a perfect situation for him. Realistically, any young player should benefit from playing alongside James. If Reddish thrives as the season progresses, the Lakers may want to hold onto him. What if he isn’t?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
The Lakers could use a shot-creating guard. One look at their roster suggests as much. D’Angelo Russell is a good player, but he’s more apt at creating for others than for himself. Meanwhile, Gabe Vincent is more of a utility, 3-and-D guard.
On the other hand, Anthony can get buckets. He’s a fantastic ball-handler who can snake into the lane and create layups. He’d give this team’s offense a new dimension. If he thrives alongside James, he may overcome some of the inefficiency that’s plagued him throughout his career with the Magic.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Cole Anthony, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Again – if Reddish is thriving, the Lakers may pass on this deal. Of course, that begs a question: if Reddish isn’t thriving, what are the Magic doing here?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
Well, they’re acquiring more than just Reddish. Christie has flashed plenty of potential in his own right. He’s not likely to ever hit Anthony’s level as a self-creator. That’s fine. The Magic have ample self-creation. Now, they need players who complement the rest of their young talent.
Perhaps that’s why Anthony is expected to move. His ability to create his own looks doesn’t do much for the developing games of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Christie’s 3-and-D skillset would. For that matter, if Reddish hits his stride in Orlando, he’ll be a nice complementary piece alongside those guys as well.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Cole Anthony, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Finally, don’t sell the value of second-round picks short. No, they aren’t premium assets, but they can be used to broker trades for role players. In time, Orlando could use these picks to bolster their roster. Hopefully, none of the players they acquire will need a fresh start.
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