NBA Trade Deadline 2018: One trade every team should make

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The trade deadline is Feb. 8, and teams are going to need to make moves to help influence the way they close out the season. Whether they want to make a push for the playoffs or a push for a top-five pick, trades are the way to make it happen.

With the trade deadline a few weeks away, rumors about players being on the move are already floating around the league. Whether it’s the L.A. Clippers deciding to send DeAndre Jordan to a contender or the Charlotte Hornets shedding salary at the cost of moving Kemba Walker.

What’ll be the first trade domino to fall? Will your favorite team move their young players for a veteran? Can someone sign Luke Ridnour so they can trade him? Let’s explore some trades for each team in the league.

Orlando Magic

Send: Elfrid Payton

Receive: Jason Smith, 2019 first round pick

Let’s kick things off with a three-team trade involving the Lakers, Magic, and Wizards. The Magic don’t have a lot going for them, and with a new front office in place, are likely looking to grab new talent and completely rebuild the team — again.

The Magic can take in Smith, who is owed just over $5 million this year with a $5.45 million player option next season. The real prize is a first round pick from the Wizards for 2019. While the pick won’t convey for another two drafts, they’re not going to be good enough for it to really make a difference next year anyways. Moving Payton creates an opening for a point guard in this year’s draft, and they get a potential expiring contract for 2018-19 in Smith.

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