2021 NBA Trade Deadline: 4 teams primed to make moves

2. Orlando Magic

Ending a seven-year playoff drought was a step in the right direction for the Orlando Magic back in 2019. But there have been no significant steps taken in the two years since. In fact, injuries to several key players have the Magic trending in the opposite direction as they sit 14th in the east with a 13-26 record.

Even when fully healthy, the path Orlando seems insistent to head down doesn’t lead anywhere worth going. But they’re fortunate enough to have an out towards a better alternative in the form of attractive trade assets who could finally have them change course.

Teams around the league are salivating at the thought of what Aaron Gordon could mean to their hopes when properly utilized. Evan Fournier is a 6’7” two guard who’s averaged over 18 points per game in each of the last two seasons while shooting close to 40 percent on threes.

Orlando might’ve been hesitant to part ways with two quality starters in the past, but it needs to take a long look in the mirror to determine whether either factors into the future of the team because time is forcing that decision upon them.

Fournier will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Gordon will hit the market the following summer.

Whether it be through yearly stagnation or injuries to guys like Markelle Fultz and Jonathan Isaac, the universe seems to be nudging the Magic in an obvious direction. We’ll have to wait and see if they finally listen and act on it.