Although early playoff exits typically yield major roster changes, you know what guarantees them? A blown 3-1 lead in the first round. That’s exactly what the Orlando Magic did, as they needed one game to advance, and ended up losing three straight to the Detroit Pistons. This is embarrassing to various degrees, which ultimately opens the window for the LA Clippers to snag Franz Wagner in the offseason to pair with Darius Garland.
Orlando does have Paolo Banchero, who they could also deal to LA, but because he had several bright moments, like 45 points in game five and 38 in game seven, and was available the entire series, he may be prioritized alongside Desmond Bane.
Regarding the asking price, Orlando wants for the rising star they signed to a notable extension in 2024 might be high, but LA has what they would want in the exact situation they're in.
Replacing Kawhi Leonard with Franz Wagner, and more, is a win-win
The Orlando Magic have serious work to do, considering they paid Paolo Banchero a massive contract not long ago, as well as traded a pick-heavy haul to the Memphis Grizzlies for Desmond Bane. Where do they start? Kawhi Leonard and the LA Clippers.
LA is likely already going to shop Leonard over the summer, and to rebuild the optimism within the organization and fanbase that was lost after the 3-1 lead disappeared, Orlando’s best bet is to acquire him.
In fact, Leonard fits perfectly with Banchero, Bane, and the Magic’s defensive culture. The cherry on top is that he’s coming off the best season of his veteran career, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, shooting 50.5% from the field and 38.7% from beyond the arc.
Now, as far as what Orlando has to give up, Franz Wagner should be the main asset. Granted, he did show signs of struggle against the Detroit Pistons in the four games he was available for, but, similarly to how the Clippers got a decade younger by replacing Darius Garland with James Harden, Wagner also has 10 years on Leonard.
That’s massive, and in addition to Wagner, the Clippers must request Anthony Black, who is about to enter the last year of his contract, and draft capital.
This way, LA gets younger and has a duo to work around, while the Magic secure a new first option, who is one of the best stars in the NBA.
Add us as a preferred source on Google