The 2018 30-team NBA mega-trade that solves nothing and makes everyone mad
By Ian Levy
Orlando Magic
Sending out: Elfrid Payton (DEN), Nikola Vucevic (CHA), Bismack Biyombo (ATL), Shelvin Mack (NYK), Mario Hezonja (PHX)
Bringing in: Ricky Rubio (UTA), Marvin Williams (CHA), Kent Bazemore (ATL), 2021 first-round pick (CLE)
This is probably not what most Magic fans have in mind for the deadline. This set-up is, admittedly, difficult to swallow. The Magic are set-up for a significant rebuild and this deal has them bringing on significant salary (an extra $11 million next year and $17 million the year after that). However, it sets them up (in theory) to be much more competitive and interesting, providing structure for their young guys and still potential growth for the future.
The Magic could enter next season with Mo Bamba anchoring their defense at center, Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac at the two wing spots and Ricky Rubio and Evan Fournier in the backcourt. That’s a group that could be stifling on defense and thrive in an uptempo transition offense. They also get Marvin Williams and Kent Bazemore to support that model off the bench.
It looks like a tough pill to swallow but Orlando could be a playoff team next season and still feature three potential stars in Gordon, Isaac and Bamba (or whoever else they land with their pick in this year’s draft). In addition, they get a 2021 first round pick from the Cavaliers which, regardless of how things shake out with LeBron this summer, should be a very nice pick.