NBA Rumors: Orlando Magic should trade Arron Afflalo

The Orlando Magic are not in a rush to trade swingman Arron Afflalo, but if the right deal comes as long, they would love to clear a path for Victor Oladipo and either Maurice Harkless or a draft pick to man the wings.

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On Saturday, a report surfaced that the Chicago Bulls were interested in Afflalo. The Bulls could really use a scorer like Afflalo and have assets, including the 16th-overall and 19th-overall picks in this year’s draft. They have talented young players and the expiring contract of Carlos Boozer as well.

Josh Robbins of The Orlando Sentinel explains why trading Afflalo is of benefit to the Magic.

"Trading Afflalo would open the shooting guard spot for Victor Oladipo, who is a natural shooting guard. The Magic are high on Oladipo and regard him as a building block in their rebuilding effort."

"• The 16th pick — or perhaps the 19th pick — could be used to draft a point guard. Although I think Elfrid Payton won’t be available at No. 16, there’s a chance that Syracuse point guard Tyler Ennis, arguably the best true point guard in this draft, would be available at No. 16. Ennis, by the way, told reporters Friday in Phoenix that he will work out for the Magic on Monday for a second time."

"• If the Magic were to acquire the 16th pick and keep their pick at No. 12, it would give them cover to select European forward Dario Saric at No. 12…"

"Trading Afflalo now would ensure the team receives an asset or assets in return for a player who is all but certain to become a free agent a year from now."

Afflalo, who is reportedly open to being dealt to a playoff team, was excellent for the Magic this year and had the best season of his career. He averaged 18.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 45.9% from the field, 42.7% from beyond the arc and 81.5% from the free throw line.

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