4 Anfernee Simons trades the Blazers should consider before training camp
By Tyler Watts
2. Magic see a missing piece in Simons
Orlando has one of the best young teams in the NBA. Paolo Banchero is a future superstar and just led the Magic to the playoffs in his second NBA season. The addition of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has them thinking about a playoff run, but do they have enough offensive firepower to get there?
Orlando has taken several shots on guards in recent drafts but has mostly come up empty. There is still hope for Anthony Black, but the Magic want to win now. Could that mean trading a couple of young pieces for someone capable of scoring 20-plus every night and creating his own shots?
Simons to Orlando
Portland’s biggest haul is coming from Orlando. The Magic are willing to move Cole Anthony but would need another salary to make the math work. Jett Howard was a lottery pick in 2023 and is a proven sharpshooter.
The Trail Blazers do not need another guard, but the two first-round picks plus a recent lottery choice is a strong offer for a 25-year-old guard the Blazers are not emphasizing as part of their core.
The Magic get Simons to pair with Banchero, Franz Wagner, KCP, and Jalen Suggs. They are still searching for a center, but this trade would be appealing to Orlando if they believe Simons can get buckets in the playoffs.
The Orlando Magic prioritized Caldwell-Pope and appear set to enter training camp with their current roster. One team has expressed interest, but making a deal work won’t be easy.