Magic Trade Rumors: NBA Insider Warns Orlando To Not Shed $40 Million+ Cap Space On 34YO Paul George

Orlando Magic‘s surging season comes to a premature end in yesterday’s Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. As the franchise now embarks on an early off-season, the goal automatically becomes to cruise past the first round. A lot of that comes from retaining their core and staff, which saw the most playoff games since 2010. However, another chunk comes from adding key veterans to the squad, as radiated by the rumors around Orlando’s inclination to acquire Paul George.

Nevertheless, as much as Magic fans would be thrilled to have the 2-way star, Bobby Marks shows apprehensions. “I see a lot of people saying Paul George, I don’t know if I’m ready to put four for 220 on Paul George – that’s a 34-year-old.” He hints at a possible growth stun of Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and other young players on the roster when roaming around the possibility of PG13.

Marks claims that acquiring George is within reach, possibly “between 32 and 42 million” per year. However, he contests by focusing on the endless possibilities an open cap space provides. “I think legitimately you can [get PG13] and that’s the risk as far as from a front office perspective as far as what you do with cap space.”

Instead of pouring their cash flow on George, Bobby wants the franchise to get a handful of dependable and threatening shooters; something he has mentioned earlier in the season as well. Mark claims that it will bolster the team’s offense and help them retain the synergy within their young core.

Who can Orlando Magic target apart from Paul George?

Paul George is yet to opt into his $44.1 million player option for the coming season. With that, and a newfound crew alongside James Harden and Russell Westbrook, there isn’t much possibility of PG turning down the option. With that, Buddy Hield and Malik Monk become the next best option for the franchisee.

Hield has proven to be a consistent shooter, surpassing the 40% mark from three in his best tenures. He brings experience of playing with young stars like Haliburton and Fox, and can stretch the floor with his presence; all while being ready to make threes.

Malik Monk has shined in some of the most intense moments in the league recently. He can score from all areas of the court and in multiple ways. Apart from shooting, experience, and clutch ability, Monk is also a reliable playmaker. He is slated to be a free agent this summer, which will see a rise on his ticket; something that the Magic can use to lure him in.

Players like Klay Thompson, Tyus Jones, and Immanuel Quickley are also a few names to consider on the list. However, in an ideal world, the Magic would want a high-pedigree 3&D player who could gel with their new team’s foundations. And if the Magic stay persistent in that hunt, expect sudden and big moves from the franchise as soon as the Free Agency begins.