With the 2022 trade deadline inching closer and closer, NBA trades will begin taking shape sooner rather than later. After covering the Central and the Atlantic Divisions, it is time to dish out a trade target for every team in the Eastern Conference’s Southeast Division.
NBA Trades Southeast Division: Orlando Magic – Caris LeVert
With the worst record in the NBA at 8-35, any moves that the Orlando Magic make leading up to the deadline will focus on improving their roster for next season and beyond.
They have several pieces in place to build around for the future in Franz Wagner, Cole Anthony, and Jalen Suggs, along with a pair of currently sidelined players in Jonathan Isaac and Markelle Fultz. If the Magic want to accelerate their rebuild, one player that should be of interest to them is Caris LeVert.
LeVert has blossomed into a special talent over the past two seasons since being traded to the Indiana Pacers, averaging 19.4 points and 4.6 assists per game. Though the Magic have an ample amount of talent in the backcourt as is, adding someone like LeVert could be a game-changer as they look to try and get back on the right track next season.
According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania (subscription required), the Pacers have taken trade calls on several players on the roster, including LeVert. The guard will be in high demand over the next month, and the Magic would be wise to at least kick the tires on a potential deal.
Set to make $17.5 million this season and $18.8 million next season, LeVert would be a pricey acquisition for the Magic to target, but he could be a great piece to add as they build for the future.