The Magic are legit! Winning seventeen games so far, they are sitting comfortably in the fourth spot of the East rankings. And it looks like they are ready to make a playoff push. However, the absence of their two young stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner has raised concerns about how far they can go. That’s why the Orlando front office has already begun planning to strengthen their squad, which could lead to Cole Anthony parting ways with the team.

As per veteran insider Evan Sidery, the Magic are gauging the trade market on Anthony, hoping to add more firepower. Well, that makes sense, considering Anthony has not been a key part of the team’s rotation so far. He is averaging a career-low 11 minutes per game.

However, his market value remains high as Cole is a solid young star, averaging 5.2 points in his limited playing time. And he has a career average of 12.6 points along with nearly four assists. But he looks a bit out of place in the Magic squad this year.

Moreover, trading him would open up several options for the Magic, as Anthony is owed $12.9 million in salary this season, thanks to his $39 million extension.

Of course, they could make a push to acquire Cam Johnson by leveraging Anthony’s contract. As great as the Magic have been so far, they lack long-range shooting. And Cam’s 43.3% efficiency from deep range this season could help solve that issue. Moreover, he also helps with the length problem in Paolo and Franz’s absence, as he can play on both sides of the ball. Cam is averaging a career-high 18.6 points, making him a solid upgrade piece for any team.

Can Magic sustain their excellence in Banchero and Wagner’s absence?

Even after making a trade to acquire a star, it will be difficult for the Magic to become legitimate contenders. Especially with their two best players out. Yes, Paolo has been out since late October with a torn right oblique. Surprisingly, the team did a great job of winning games in his absence, mainly because Wagner stepped up his game, upping his averages to 24.4 points and nearly six assists.

Unfortunately, he too, suffered the same injury as Paolo earlier this month and got ruled out indefinitely. Franz will be re-evaluated in four weeks. However, the Magic could get a boost soon because Banchero has begun doing conditioning and ball-handling drills, and is expected to make a comeback soon.

Well, it looks like the front office is ready to go all in once the young star returns, which is evident from their reported willingness to trade Cole Anthony. It was last season that they ended their three-year playoff drought. However, they have not won a series in fourteen years. And the Magic hope to end that streak this year and maybe even contend for the title.

Do you think they can do it?