The Toronto Raptors and the Orlando Magic are doing good as both teams are above .500 to start this season.
However, that doesn't mean they can't do better by making some moves to shake up their roster. Per Basketball Insider Steve Kyler, both teams will benefit by shaking up their two-guard position. Here's the proposed trade.
Orlando Magic Receive: SG DeMar DeRozan
Toronto Raptors Receive: SG Victor Oladipo and PF Channing Frye
Why does Kyler believe it is a good trade? Here's why:
"Orlando faces some choices. While a ballooning salary cap will allow them to retain anyone they'd like to keep long-term, the question becomes: is one of these promising pieces that are part of the log-jam more valuable in trade than as a long-term piece?" he wrote.
"The Magic have yet to find a meaningful role for forward Aaron Gordon, and as the young guys start to require more time can a team that's focused on winning now manage the need for young guys to grow and blossom while at the same time keeping the players that can truly win games on the floor?"
The Orlando Magic have the luxury to move Oladipo, since they can even afford to move him to the bench. The emergence of French guard Evan Fournier plus drafting Mario Hezonja (giving him more time to develop as well) makes the 2nd overall pick of the 2013 draft expendable. Derozan is versatile enough to move to the small forward slot, plus they will have an established veteran to guide the youngsters as well.
For the Toronto Raptors, it will be a smart move financially as DeRozan is rumored to opt out of his contract to demand a max salary by the end of this season. Taking Oladipo will move them far away from giving a huge extension but also getting someone with incredible talent. Plus, they could make a run for another superstar in the off-season.
Is this a good deal for both teams? Sound off in the comment section below.
