NBA Trade Rumors: 5 big names allegedly on the block right now
Mario Hezonja, SG, Orlando Magic
I know Mario Hezonja isn’t the biggest of names, but he is a former No. 5 overall pick who once appeared to have a bright future in this league. Instead, he’s spent the last two seasons proving his bust status as a member of the Orlando Magic.
Well, it appears Orlando is ready to turn the page on this failed experiment. Then again, maybe a change of scenery could get things going for Hezonja, who appeared to be bursting at the seams with the potential after coming over from Croatia in 2015.
Sources: Orlando has explored the trade market on Mario Hezonja. The Magic must decide on his fourth-year $5.2 million team option by today.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) October 31, 2017
Eventually, the Magic did end up declining his team option, meaning Hezonja will hit the open market next offseason. That means it’s all the more likely Orlando will be searching for anyone willing to take him off their hands prior to the trade deadline. The only question is whether there will be any takers.
My guess would be no, but you never can be sure. Hezonja looked like a star in the making back on draft day. While he hasn’t live up to the hype or his draft status, there may be some team willing to give him a shot in their system. If they liked what they saw prior to the draft, it could be worth a second round pick to see if a new team can bring out the best in Hezonja.
Chances are stacked against any club dishing out first round draft picks for the former top pick. You better believe the Magic will listen to any offer that comes across the table, though.