JUST IN: Orlando Magic Land another high rated profile in a league deal done just now after blockbuster trade
The Orlando Magic nearly made the second round of the Playoffs in their first season back after a four-year absence. Paolo Banchero has significantly improved the team, and Jamahl Mosley has done a commendable job as head coach. With the addition of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the Magic are signaling their intent to contend, suggesting that their days of being at the bottom of the lottery are over.
Conversely, the Atlanta Hawks have been heading in the opposite direction. They’ve addressed their roster issues by trading Dejounte Murray for picks and players. The Hawks aren’t positioned to compete right now and might consider moving on from Trae Young. The Magic would need to give up a lot, but acquiring Young could propel them into the top four in the Eastern Conference.
**Trade Details**
**Orlando Magic Receive:** Trae Young
**Atlanta Hawks Receive:** Cole Anthony, Anthony Black, Jett Howard, Moritz Wagner, 2025 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2026 First-Round Pick Swap (ORL), 2027 First-Round Pick (ORL)
This trade can’t be executed before October 4 due to Wagner’s recently signed restriction, but it would be a significant upgrade for the Magic. Young would enhance their offense, forming a dynamic pairing with Banchero. The Hawks would commit to rebuilding, gaining young assets and picks.
**The Magic Add Needed Offensive Creativity**
The Magic struggled with offense last season, ranking 113.4 in offensive rating, among the bottom 10 in the NBA and the worst among Playoff teams. Their offseason moves, including the addition of KCP, haven’t added the offensive creativity they need. Young, who averaged 25.7 points and 10.8 assists last season, could fill this gap, complementing Banchero and Franz Wagner. The Magic’s strong defense, featuring Jalen Suggs, KCP, and Jonathan Isaac, could help cover for Young’s defensive shortcomings.
The outgoing players, like Black and Howard, have potential, making this trade a risk for the Magic. If Young’s presence disrupts the locker room, the cost could be a concern. However, the Magic have the potential to become a significant Eastern Conference contender.
**The Hawks Load Up on Young Talent Ahead of a Stacked Draft**
The Trae Young era has struggled since their 2021 Eastern Conference Finals appearance. Trading Murray won’t solve all their issues, but acquiring Dyson Daniels and this deal’s assets will support their rebuilding efforts. Anthony Black and Daniels could form a formidable defensive backcourt, and with Quin Snyder’s defensive coaching, they could develop a strong defensive identity. Cole Anthony and Moritz Wagner offer immediate contributions, while the Hawks could focus on developing Onyeka Okongwu and exploring trade options for Clint Capela.
**A Risky Win-Win?**
The Hawks could finally move forward after several years of underachievement with Young. The return of multiple lottery picks and future picks reflects his value. The Magic, with their defensive structure, could make this risk worth taking, enhancing their offense with Young.
The Magic are taking a significant risk with their picks and players, but with Banchero and Wagner committed long-term, they have a solid foundation. If the trade doesn’t work out, the Magic can replenish their picks and still have key players. This trade is risky but might be necessary if the Magic’s offensive struggles persist.