The Orlando Magic thought they found their transcending point guard when they drafted Jalen Suggs with the fifth overall pick in 2021, but the 22-year-old now seems better suited as a shooting guard than a floor general.
So when the 2023 NBA Draft tipped off, the Magic were back at it, selecting the promising 6-foot-7 Anthony Black to become their point guard of the future, but the 20-year-old needs more time to grow. This has left the Magic still searching for some type of bridge solution until Black shows he’s ready for more.
With the Feb. 8 NBA trade deadline closing in fast, the Magic are putting their focus on the point guard position, and a few big names are becoming available.
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Orlando Magic targeting Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry ahead of NBA trade deadline
According to Matt Moore of Action Network, the Orlando Magic have been heavily involved in discussions to add another point guard. This includes potentially trading for future Hall of Famer Chris Paul, who’s been dubbed as the ‘Point God’ in the past thanks to his veteran leadership and ability to take care of the ball.
Paul hasn’t been the right fit for the Golden State Warriors, and in a season where they’re nowhere near ready to compete for another NBA Finals, the 38-year-old could be on the way out. With CP3 still chasing his first ring, it’s possible he will get bought out so he can join another contender, too.
But if not, the Magic could make a lot of sense as a trade partner. Not only do they have young assets that the Warriors may be interested in, they have a great need for reliable production from their backcourt duo.
If not Paul, the Magic could always pursue the recently traded Kyle Lowry, who seems destined to either be shipped out or bought out from his contract with the Charlotte Hornets. Again, if the Hornets are deadset on trading Lowry, the Magic could be a great trade partner, but if he’s bought out, expect Lowry to pursue other opportunities that allow him to win now.
Either way, it’s evident that the Magic are doing their due diligence on the point guard market this season. Whether they can strike a deal remains to be seen, but the clock’s ticking.
