the Orlando Magic are strategically positioned for the upcoming offseason, armed with valuable assets for potential trades.Despite limited cap space hindering their ability to sign a high-profile free agent outright, the team possesses two first-round draft picks and expiring contracts that could facilitate significant moves.

Keith Smith, a Sportrac Salary Cap expert, recently shared his insights on the Orlando Magic’s options.He highlighted Paolo Banchero, franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs as the team’s core “building blocks.” However, Smith cautioned that acquiring a major star would likely require parting with one of these key players.

potential Trade Targets: Trae Young and LaMelo Ball

“The name that gets thrown out a lot is, go get trae young, go get LaMelo Ball,” Smith said. “If you do that, you’re trading either Wagner or Suggs because you’re gonna have to. Those teams aren’t gonna give them up without getting really good players back.”

“Just because it works in the trade machine doesn’t make it a good trade.”

Smith emphasized the importance of careful evaluation, cautioning against rushing into trades based solely on their theoretical feasibility. He noted that trade machines do not account for the overall value and impact of a trade.

Smith also noted that the Magic’s financial situation means they cannot afford to add salary without shedding existing contracts. “They would instantly be having the conversations we’re having about Boston today, which is how they are gonna start moving off some of this salary,” Smith said.