The Orlando Magic are building something special. Their roster is littered with former lottery selections, including number one overall pick Paolo Banchero. The Magic hope to break out as Banchero and Franz Wagner become All-Stars. Orlando is one of the most exciting teams that fans are not discussing.
They have too much young talent. Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, and Anthony Black are competing for guard minutes and someone will not be happy with their playing time. Anthony is due for an extension and could be on the trade block. The Magic sending him out solves their backcourt logjam and allows the franchise to stockpile additional assets.
Training camp is here, and every team is trying to sort out their roster. There will be some deals in the weeks ahead to make the pieces fit. If the Magic are motivated, Cole Anthony could be wearing a new uniform before opening night, but where would he land?
Trades that get Cole Anthony off the Orlando Magic
5. Clippers dump Covington to get Anthony
The LA Clippers have had multiple trade discussions this offseason, but have been unable to find a taker for any of their three unwanted expiring salaries. Marcus Morris Sr. and Robert Covington were out of the team’s playoff rotation and are readily available on the trade market. Nicolas Batum could also be moved for an upgrade.
LA has been linked to James Harden, but the talks with the Clippers have not gone as planned. Could the Magic swoop in? The Clippers desperately need to get younger, and Cole Anthony took a significant step forward last season. Would LA be willing to part with a protected first-round pick to get the 23-year-old?
Anthony is best suited as a sixth man who runs the second unit and gets buckets. The 6’2 guard will always have defensive issues, but the Clippers can overcome them when healthy. Their roster is loaded with wings and the team’s length should help significantly.
The LA Clippers may decide to keep their first-round draft capital for a more impactful trade. They would save a bit of money and get a needed young talent, but LA hopes to pry another star onto their roster. Consider this deal unlikely, but not out of the question.