Every team in the NBA has needs. Sometimes, they need a specific type of player. Other teams have more general needs. They may simply need assets.
It depends on where a team is in the league’s hierarchy. Take the San Antonio Spurs. This team is in the beginning stages of a rebuild. The Spurs don’t need players – they need draft capital.
In time, they’ll hope to be where the Orlando Magic are. This team has been rebuilding for a while, but in 2023-24, they’re taking a step forward. The Magic are ready to acquire players. Could they acquire Doug McDermott from the Spurs?
NBA Trade Proposal
San Antonio Spurs Receive: G/F Gary Harris, 2025 Second-Round Pick (BOS or MEM via ORL)
Orlando Magic Receive: F Doug McDermott
Yet, every team in the league has one pressing need that they should prioritize above all else. They need a franchise player. If they don’t have one, it doesn’t matter what – or who – else they have.
In that sense, the Spurs are ahead of the curve. In the last draft, they landed the rights to select Victor Wembanyama. This is the most highly touted prospect since LeBron James. Teams around the NBA are envious of the position that the Spurs are in.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Doug McDermott, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic Updates
The Magic don’t need to be feeling much envy. Paolo Banchero may not be Wembanyama, but he’s flashed clear franchise player potential. Franz Wagner looks like a future star in his own right. Should Orlando add Doug McDermott to the mix?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
Look at this Magic roster. Banchero and Wagner aren’t the only promising players you’ll find. Jalen Suggs has emerged as one of the best defensive guards in the league. Anthony Black has an intriguing skillset. What are the Magic missing?
Shooting. This team badly needs to space the floor. The Magic did well to select Jett Howard in the 2023 draft, but he’s a rookie. Meanwhile, one shooting specialist isn’t enough for a modern NBA roster.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Doug McDermott, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic Updates
So, why not add one of the best movement shooters in the NBA? McDermott would give this team a whole new outlook. He could be the missing piece that helps Orlando make a deep playoff run. Should the Spurs give him up?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
This is not a blockbuster trade. It involves two veteran role players. McDermott is a mediocre defender at best, and he can’t create for himself. The Spurs won’t receive a haul of draft capital for the sharpshooter.
Anything is better than nothing. If the Spurs select wisely, they can find a rotation player in the second round. At this stage in their rebuild, adding young talent is the priority. This deal helps the Spurs do just that.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Doug McDermott, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic Updates
Doing so without making any major financial commitments is key for this organization as well. McDermott is on an expiring deal, and so is Harris. The Spurs are effectively adding a second-round pick at no cost here. If this deal is on the table, they need to do it.
