If you’re a fan of an NBA team in the Eastern Conference, you’ve likely got an eye on the Orlando Magic. This team is on the rise. The Magic have developed into one of the best teams in the NBA, and meanwhile, their roster is mostly young.
It wasn’t so long ago that the Cleveland Cavaliers were in the same position. This team had an exciting young core before making a move for Donovan Mitchell. Once they traded for him, they were supposed to be a powerhouse. Unfortunately, that hasn’t been the case for the Cavs so far.
What’s been the problem? It’s hard to pinpoint. With that said, it feels possible that the Cavaliers rushed into acquiring Mitchell. Should the Magic risk making the same mistake?
NBA Trade Proposal: Orlando Magic Land Cleveland Cavaliers’ Donovan Mitchell
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac, G/F Gary Harris, F Chuma Okeke, 2025 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2027 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2029 First-Round Pick (ORL)
Orlando Magic Receive: G Donovan Mitchell
With that said, it wasn’t so long ago that the Cavaliers were NBA champions. Behind hometown hero LeBron James, the Cavaliers climbed the league’s mountain to its highest peak. When James left, they were supposed to plummet.
So, give this front office credit for avoiding that fate. The Cavaliers reimagined their roster in relatively short order. They were effectively ready to go after drafting Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. What does the future hold?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic Updates
We’re not sure. The Cavaliers have disappointed since shifting into win-now mode. That doesn’t mean they have to blow up their roster. This group is still young — the Cavaliers have time.
Should they really move Mitchell?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
Well, it’s been rumored that Mitchell wants to play in a bigger market. If that’s true, it’s reason enough to move him. The Cavaliers can’t risk keeping Mitchell on the roster if he’s eventually going to depreciate his trade value.
After all, his value would be exceedingly high at the moment. We’re reflecting that here. In today’s NBA market, a trio of unprotected first-round picks is quite the hall.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic Updates
That’s not all they’re getting here. Harris would be a useful player on this team. Isaac is a home run swing, but if he can get healthy, he and Mobley could form the best defense in the NBA.
Should the Magic cut ties with their potentially elite defender?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
Sure. After all, the Magic have two wings ahead of Isaac in their pecking order. With Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner emerging, Isaac may be getting squeezed out even if he can get his body right.
In other words, the Magic don’t necessarily need him. What they do need is a guard who can create his offense in the half-court. This team has an elite defense, but their offense is lacking. Mitchell would certainly be a strong remedy for that problem.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic Updates
Is this a costly deal? Absolutely. It’s a cost worth paying. The Magic could make the leap to real title contention by acquiring Mitchell. After all, they’re already a team to watch.
