The Orlando Magic were a pleasant surprise last NBA season. While much of the attention was on the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Magic quietly had a solid year. This season, with a young roster, they’ll look to build on that success. However, there are a few key areas the team needs to improve, most notably their shooting and point guard play.
With their offseason acquisition, Orlando is addressing at least one of those concerns. The arrival of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope should give them a significant boost in shooting.
Additionally, his elite defense won’t compromise the already strong defensive standards in Florida. However, adding one 40% shooter won’t solve all their problems. The team might look to make some trades during the season to further improve their chances.
Here are three players who would make sense for the Magic:
Simone Fontecchio, Detroit Pistons
Simone Fontecchio may not be a household name, but he could make a significant impact for the Magic. After being traded to the Detroit Pistons midseason last year, he experienced an offensive breakout. Most notably, he made a huge leap as a 3-point shooter.
Over the remainder of the season, the 28-year-old averaged more than 15 points per game. However, it’s his 42.6% shooting from beyond the arc that will catch the attention of Orlando’s management.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Simone Fontecchio, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic Updates
As an affordable floor spacer, there may not be a better option in the league. Off the bench, Fontecchio could be the perfect role player for the Magic.
Cam Johnson, Brookyln Nets
A more expensive and proven player, Cam Johnson would be valuable strictly for his shooting prowess. With plenty of playoff experience, including a trip to the NBA Finals, Johnson would be ideal for a Magic team looking to make a playoff push.
On a rebuilding team like the Brooklyn Nets, his time may be limited, so expect Orlando to be in the mix if a trade becomes available. A career 40% shooter, Johnson would add much-needed spacing in Orlando. Even in a down year last season, he averaged over 13 points per game while shooting better than 39% from 3-point range.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cam Johnson, Brooklyn Nets, Orlando Magic Updates
On a Magic team with more offensive weapons, his numbers and efficiency could improve. Moreover, with his size and solid defense, Johnson wouldn’t hurt the Magic’s identity.
Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
Now, this is the blockbuster move the Magic could pursue. While Jalen Suggs is already a solid NBA player, he profiles more as a role player. To complement Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, the Magic need a third star.
Trae Young might become available at just the right time. The Atlanta Hawks have already begun a soft rebuild, and if things don’t go according to plan, they may completely tear it down, making Young available.
For the undersized guard, there may not be a better situation than Orlando. As one of the best defensive teams in the league, their lineup could easily compensate for Trae’s defensive shortcomings.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic Updates
Adding a 25-point, 10-assist player would take some adjustment, but the move makes the most sense for the Magic as they look to take the next step. It would provide ample shooting and spacing, making life easier for their two young stars.
