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Philadelphia 76ers: A groundbreaking, 4-team mega trade proposition

By Simon Smith

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 28: Markelle Fultz #20 and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers react against Melbourne United in the preseason game at Wells Fargo Center on September 28, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 28: Markelle Fultz #20 and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers react against Melbourne United in the preseason game at Wells Fargo Center on September 28, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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Magic outlook

Coming off a 25-win season, the only way was up as it pertained to the fortunes of the Orlando Magic. Considering they are now just half a game outside the playoff race with a 17-20 record, this should certainly be considered progress.

However, with the 2011-12 season representing the last time the franchise made a playoff appearance, patience among Magic followers has certainly been severely tested. Considering their lack of postseason action over recent seasons, they have naturally welcomed aboard a number of high-end draft picks.

Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, a number of these picks did not pan out as hoped. Most notable was Victor Oladipo, who was dealt away after three seasons despite being taken No. 2 overall in 2013. Considering he earned the NBA Most Improved Player Award last season while being named an All-Star last season, this has not worked out in hindsight for the Magic. There was also Oladipo’s current teammate, Domantas Sabonis, who was dealt prior to playing a game after being selected No. 11 overall in 2016.

Furthermore, this doesn’t mention Elfrid Payton, who was traded away, and Mario Herzonja, who left last summer via free agency. If you keep missing out on top-end picks, it comes as little surprise the Magic have found themselves on the outside looking in by the end of each season.

Presently, the Magic have a trio of recent high-end lottery picks in Aaron Gordon, Jonathan Isaac and Mohamed Bamba, all aged 23 and under. However, as all three are frontcourt members with somewhat overlapping skill sets, it’s imperative for the Magic to target a high-upside backcourt performer to take the team forward.

While incumbent point guards in D.J. Augustin and Jerian Grant serve a purpose in the short-term, the Magic front office will be well aware a young, up-and-coming point guard should feature highly on their wish list.