7 Best Targets For The Orlando Magic In 2024 Offseason

Potential Trade Offer For Paul George: Markelle Fultz, Jonathan Isaac, Jett Howard, 2024 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick

As the Los Angeles Clippers faced a disappointing early exit from the playoffs, falling to Dallas in the first round, the future of Paul George has become a hot topic in NBA circles. With a player option on the table, George faces a critical decision: he can opt-out to become a free agent or accept the final year of his contract. If he chooses the latter, it could potentially lower his trade value, making him an attractive target for teams eager to bolster their roster. Among the interested parties, Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly at the forefront.

For Orlando, the addition of Paul George could represent a transformative move. In the previous season, George posted averages of 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists across 74 games, underscoring his durability and consistent performance. His prowess on both ends of the court makes him a valuable asset in any team's setup, but for a young and ascending team like Orlando, he could be the missing piece that elevates them from playoff hopefuls to serious contenders.

Integrating George into the Magic roster would provide immediate benefits. Offensively, his ability to score from anywhere on the floor would take considerable pressure off young stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, allowing them more space and freedom to operate. Defensively, George's length and intelligence make him a formidable perimeter defender, capable of guarding the opposing team's best player. This would be especially valuable in a conference loaded with elite wing talents.

Moreover, George's experience in high-stakes games brings a veteran presence that Orlando currently lacks. His playoff experience and poise under pressure would be critical in mentoring a young squad and instilling a culture of winning. With George as a central figure, the Magic could not only secure more regular-season victories but also pose a significant threat in the playoffs.

2. Trae Young

Potential Trade Offer For Trae Young: Cole Anthony, Anthony Black, Chuma Okeke, 2024 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick (Nuggets)

After the Atlanta Hawks missed the playoffs, Trae Young made it clear he's looking to win, and he might just be ready for a change of scenery. That’s where the Orlando Magic come in, currently on the hunt for a top-notch point guard who can really shake things up.

Trae’s stats are nothing to sneeze at; he racked up an impressive 25.7 points and led the league with 10.8 assists per game in his latest season, over 54 games. He's a wizard with the ball, especially in pick-and-roll plays, which would be killer with Orlando's young big man, Paolo Banchero.

In Orlando, Trae could really take charge. He’s been deep into the playoffs before, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, so he knows what it takes to get there. This kind of experience would be gold for a young Magic team that’s got talent but needs some guidance on the big stage.

Tactically speaking, adding Trae would mean a major upgrade for Orlando's offense. His knack for hitting deep shots opens up the floor like nobody’s business, making life easier for everyone on his team. Plus, his top-tier passing can get the ball exactly where it needs to go, boosting the team's scoring chances.

Sure, defense might not be Trae's strong suit, but the Magic can work around that. They can tighten up their defense elsewhere and make the most out of Trae’s offensive firepower. The trade-off? More points on the board, and a more thrilling game all around.

Getting Trae Young could signal a big shift for the Magic, showing they’re serious about moving up from just being a hopeful team to real playoff contenders. His leadership and knack for lighting up the scoreboard could be just what Orlando needs to stir things up in the Eastern Conference.

3. Dejounte Murray

Potential Trade Offer For Dejounte Murray: Cole Anthony, Anthony Black, Chuma Okeke, 2024 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick (Nuggets)

Looks like the Atlanta Hawks have got a tough choice on their hands this offseason: stick with Trae Young or hang onto Dejounte Murray. Either way, Orlando could really benefit from swooping in on Murray if he becomes available. Dejounte’s been on fire since getting into the Hawks two seasons ago, not just with his passing but also upping his scoring game, and he’s still a sharp defender on the perimeter—something the Magic could definitely use.

This season, Murray put up some solid numbers: 22.5 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.3 rebounds over 78 games. That’s the kind of stat line that shows he can do a bit of everything. With the ball in his hands, he’s a threat not just to score but to set up his teammates in prime spots to score, which is just what Orlando needs to add some oomph to their offense.

Bringing Murray into the mix could be a slam dunk for the Magic’s defense too. He’s known for his quick hands and smart positioning, which makes him great at shutting down opponents on the perimeter. This skill would mesh well with Orlando’s current setup, as they’ve already got some solid defenders and adding Murray would only make their defensive wall tougher to crack.

On the court, Murray could serve as a sort of on-floor general for Orlando, steering the team in the right direction and keeping everyone on their toes. His ability to handle the ball and make smart plays could take some pressure off the younger guys, letting them focus on fine-tuning their skills without carrying all the weight.

Overall, grabbing Dejounte Murray could really round out Orlando’s squad, giving them that extra edge both offensively and defensively. He’s got the experience and the skills to boost the Magic into more serious playoff contention. Plus, his all-around game and leadership could be the keys to unlocking even greater potential in the team’s young stars.

4. Klay Thompson

Potential Contract Range Per Year: $25M - $30M (3-Year Deal)

After a season that saw the Golden State Warriors miss the playoffs and Klay Thompson posting his lowest numbers in nearly a decade, it might be time for a change of scene. Enter the Orlando Magic, who could really use a guy like Klay to open up the floor. In Orlando, Klay could find a more central role, and possibly a juicier contract than what the Warriors might be willing to offer him now as a free agent.

Klay's reputation as one of the NBA's elite shooters isn't just for show. Even in a down year, his ability to stretch defenses with his three-point shooting is exactly what Orlando needs to add some depth to their offense. The Magic have been building a squad with some solid pieces, but they're missing that lethal shooting threat from deep that can change the game in a blink. Klay can be that guy.

Bringing Klay on board would not only improve Orlando’s spacing but also provide their young stars, like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, more room to operate. Defenders would have to think twice about leaving Klay alone beyond the arc, which would open up lanes and create more scoring opportunities for the whole team.

Moreover, Klay’s experience in high-stakes games, including multiple NBA Finals, would bring a veteran presence that’s invaluable for a young team looking to make their mark in the playoffs. He knows what it takes to win at the highest level, and his cool demeanor in clutch situations could help instill a winning mentality throughout the Magic roster.

In Orlando, Klay could also rediscover his game without the intense scrutiny that comes with being part of a high-profile team like the Warriors. This fresh start might be just what he needs to bounce back and prove he's still one of the best shooters in the game. For the Magic, it’s a chance to add a proven winner and sharpshooter who could turn their offense from good to great.

5. Nic Claxton

Potential Trade Offer For Nic Claxton: Wendell Carter Jr, Jonathan Isaac, 2024 first-round pick

The Orlando Magic are on the lookout for some serious muscle at center to pair up with Paolo Banchero, and Nic Claxton could be just the right fit. A candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, Claxton may be on the market, and either a free agent signing or a sign-and-trade with the Nets could land him in Orlando. While he's not known for stretching the floor, his inside defense could totally transform the Magic’s game.

Claxton put up some solid numbers this season, averaging 11.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and an impressive 2.1 blocks over 71 games. These stats highlight his knack for controlling the paint, both in snagging rebounds and swatting away shots. For a Magic team that's been on the hunt for a defensive anchor, Claxton could be a game-changer.

Bringing Claxton to Orlando would shore up their interior defense significantly. His presence in the middle would make opponents think twice about driving to the rim, and his shot-blocking ability adds a layer of security the Magic have been missing. This defensive prowess would not only help in keeping scores low but also in sparking fast-break opportunities for Orlando’s young and agile squad.

Offensively, while Claxton might not be the guy to knock down threes, he’s efficient around the rim and can score off pick-and-rolls and putbacks. His energetic style of play would mesh well with Orlando’s young core, providing them with more opportunities to capitalize on fast-paced transitions.

Moreover, Claxton’s youth and potential for growth make him a fitting candidate for the Magic’s timeline, aligning well with their strategy of building a competitive team around their burgeoning young talents. His addition would not only fill a crucial need but also signal Orlando’s commitment to constructing a well-rounded, defensively formidable team capable of contending in the Eastern Conference.

6. Nikola Vucevic

Potential Trade Offer For Nikola Vucevic: Wendell Carter Jr, Jonathan Isaac, 2024 first-round pick

Bringing Nikola Vucevic back to Orlando could be a nostalgic move with a lot of strategic perks. Unlike Nic Claxton, Vucevic offers a mix of strong rebounding skills and the ability to space the floor, which could really open things up for Paolo Banchero inside.

Last season, Vucevic averaged 18.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, and dished out 3.3 assists over 76 games, proving he’s still a force to be reckoned with in the league. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc makes him a dual-threat center—someone who can pull opposing big men out of the paint and hit from distance, which is exactly what the Magic need to give Banchero more room to maneuver and excel in the paint.

With Vucevic in the lineup, Orlando could enhance their offensive flow dramatically. His passing abilities are top-notch for a big man, which means he can help facilitate the offense, setting up not just shots for himself but also creating opportunities for teammates. This aspect of his game would be particularly beneficial for players like Franz Wagner and Banchero, who excel at attacking the rim.

Moreover, Vucevic’s veteran presence and familiarity with the Magic organization—he was previously a key player for Orlando—would make his transition back into the squad smooth and potentially impactful from day one. His experience and basketball IQ would be invaluable in helping the younger players adjust and find their rhythm in the game.

Overall, Vucevic's return could provide the Magic with a reliable scoring option, a dependable rebounder, and a player who enhances the team's spacing and offensive dynamics. This combination would not only boost their performance but also provide a versatile offensive toolkit that could be a nightmare for opposing defenses in the Eastern Conference.

7. D’Angelo Russell

Potential Contract Range Per Year: $20M - $25M (3-Year Deal)

After a disappointing first-round exit with the Lakers and a particularly tough series against the Nuggets, D'Angelo Russell might be looking for a fresh start, and Orlando could be just the right spot. His regular season was pretty solid, and if he opts out of his $18 million player option, he could snag a heftier deal with the Magic.

Last season, D'Lo put up 18.0 points, dished out 6.3 assists, and grabbed 3.1 rebounds per game across 76 games. These stats show he’s got a lot to offer, especially in terms of scoring and playmaking. In Orlando, he could bring a similar vibe to what Trae Young might offer, though not at the same superstar level. He's got a killer three-point shot that could seriously boost the Magic's offensive game.

Adding Russell to the squad would mean more scoring options and a boost in playmaking, which is just what Orlando needs to help their young forwards like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. His ability to hit from deep would open up the floor, giving Banchero and Wagner more room to work their magic around the rim and above it.

Russell’s experience in the league, including playoff runs, could also bring a much-needed veteran presence to a relatively young Orlando team. His know-how in high-pressure games would help the younger players develop their confidence and composure, both crucial for a team looking to make a name for themselves in the postseason.

All in all, snagging D’Angelo Russell could be a smart move for the Magic. He brings scoring, solid playmaking, and a deep threat that could help transform Orlando’s offense, making them a more versatile and dangerous team in the Eastern Conference.