Predicting where the NBA's top 5 rumored trade targets will end up in 2024–25

1) Trae Young-Best fit: Orlando Magic

Trae Young is one of the NBA’s best playmakers, but his gaudy numbers have not really translated to winning results in Atlanta. Outside of a Cinderella run to the Eastern Conference finals in 2021, the Hawks have been allergic to rising above mediocrity. They traded for Dejounte Murray prior to the 2022-23 season and they still couldn’t rise to the top six in the East. Trading him this offseason signaled that Atlanta is ready to head in a new direction.

With young players like Jalen Johnson and the number one pick in this year’s draft Zaccharie Riscaher now in the fold, the Hawks have young talent in place for a rebuild. Moving on from Young has been a rumor for awhile now and even though his value may not be that high, Atlanta could fetch a decent return to aid their rebuild. The Magic have a need at point guard and would be the perfect fit for Young.

Orlando’s issue last year was offense, as they were at or near the bottom ten in multiple categories including three-point percentage and makes, offensive rating, and assists per game. With ascending young talent like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, having a dynamic playmaker and floor spacer like Young would open up the floor.

Young has lower than eight assists per game in his career and is coming off a season where he shot 37 percent from three-point range. His offensive skill set is what can take the Magic far in the East and put them firmly in contender status. Orlando also has the draft picks and young talent that could entice the Hawks in a trade. It's time for them to cash in.