NBA speculation: Magic allegedly involved in potential trade for $100 million Portland Trail Blazers star
Bringing Anfernee Simons on Board: A Potential Game-Changer for the Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic's playoff exit in the first round for the second consecutive season has given the team the green light for some major moves this offseason.
While the Magic have been a tough nut to crack over the past two years, they've struggled with a lack of backcourt creation and shooting that's common among contenders. But a phone call to Portland might just solve some of these issues.
In an article for The Stein Line, writers Jake Fischer and Marc Stein stated that Anfernee Simons, a former Blazers backcourt mate, has been increasingly linked as a target for Orlando.
Simons, a 25-year-old native of Orlando who would fit nicely with the team's timeline alongside players like Paolo Banchero (22) and Franz Wagner (23), could help address the Magic's shooting woes. Despite posting a three-point percentage that dipped this past season, Simons is a career 38.1% 3-point shooter and one of the best free-throw shooters in the league.
If Simons finds a new role outside of Portland, it's possible his perimeter shooting numbers could improve. He's also averaged 4.5 assists over the last four seasons, which could give the Magic's offense the boost it desperately needs.
The Magic's offense was the fourth-worst in terms of rating last season, with teams like the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, and Brooklyn Nets — who combined for a dismal 63-183 record — finishing behind them. In fact, the Magic's net rating was just -0.2, despite posting the second-best defensive rating (109.1) in the NBA.
Trade talks between Orlando and the Blazers could heat up this offseason, as Simons is entering the final year of his contract and will make $27.7 million. According to our website Brett Siegel, teams have called the Blazers about Simons in the past, but there hasn't been a strong sense that he was close to being dealt.
The potential downside for Orlando, of course, would be parting with a blend of veteran experience and youth to make the trade happen. However, the payoff — a significant upgrade to the Magic's offense — could make it all worthwhile.
Part of the Magic's offensive struggles can be attributed to injuries to players like Jalen Suggs and Mo Wagner. Suggs, who averaged a career-high 16.2 points per game and 3.7 assists before going down with a season-ending injury in January, and Wagner, who tore his ACL in December and was averaging a career-high 12.9 points, could return to action stronger and healthier next season.
In summary, acquiring Anfernee Simons could be the key to the Orlando Magic elevating their offensive profile and returning to playoff contention. Although the trade would cost the team valuable assets, Simons' shooting, scoring, and playmaking abilities could provide the spark the team needs to make a serious run next season.
- The Orlando Magic's pursuit of Anfernee Simons could significantly improve their offense, as he offers exceptional shooting and playmaking abilities, potentially addressing the team's woes.
- Simons, a native of Orlando and a 38.1% career 3-point shooter, could be a key piece in the Magic's strategy to counter their fourth-worst offensive rating, a problem that was exacerbated by injuries to players like Jalen Suggs and Mo Wagner.
- Trade discussions between the Orlando Magic and the Portland Trail Blazers may intensify this offseason, as both teams consider the potential benefits of a trade involving Simons, a valuable asset for the Magic who could boost their playoff prospects in the NBA.
