The Orlando Magic’s forward and guard Gary Harris is likely to get traded to the Houston Rockets this offseason. The Rockets have worked very hard this summer and have improved the strength of their squad significantly. They were rebuilding, and it looks like they have found their key players and now, they are assembling their roster around him. On the other hand, the Magic are trying to land a veteran. Can the two teams help each other?
The Michigan State Spartans product Harris played 48 games for the Magic last season and averaged 8.3 points, 1.2 assists, and 2 rebounds per game while shooting 43.1 percent from beyond the arc. The 29-year-old would be a great addition to the Rockets’ roster but the Milwaukee Bucks have their eyes set on the player since they landed Damian Lillard. Can the Rockets manage to sign him? Here is all the information you need about the trade between the Orlando Magic and the Houston Rockets involving Gary Harris.
What would the Rockets offer for Gary Harris?
The Rockets are expected to offer Victor Oladipo, Jae’Sean Tate, and one second-round pick each from the years 2024 and 2025 in exchange for the Magic’s #14. The Magic are not satisfied with Jonathan Isaac and this trade might be a way of collecting assets to replace him.
#Magic Season Scoring Distribution (2022-23)
1. Franz Wagner: 16.3%
2. Paolo Banchero: 15.7 %
3. Wendell Carter Jr: 9.5%
4. Markelle Fultz: 9.2%
5. Cole Anthony: 8.5%
6. Bol Bol: 6.9%
7. Mo Wagner: 6.6%
8. Jalen Suggs: 5.7%
9. Gary Harris: 4.3%
10. Other: 17.3%What Stands Out? pic.twitter.com/v19u1kdZWQ
— Fawzan Amer (@FawzanAmer_) June 8, 2023
Why would the Rockets like to sign Gary Harris?
The Rockets had put their faith in Kevin Porter for the upcoming season, but he would not be featuring for them following his arrest. Harris would be one of the best replacements for the player since he is brilliant at spacing the floor and defending.
Current former Spartans in the NBA, ranked in order of Points Per Game during the 2022-23 season!
6️⃣. Miles Bridges: DNP
5️⃣. Max Christie: 3.1 PPG
4️⃣. Xavier Tillman Sr: 7 PPG
3️⃣. Gary Harris: 8.3 PPG
2️⃣. Draymond Green: 8.5 PPG
1️⃣. Jaren Jackson Jr: 18.6 PPGAny suprises? pic.twitter.com/YycroDL6xv
— SpartansMuse (@SpartansMuse) July 13, 2023
Why would the Magic trade-off Gary Harris?
The Magic know that they would not be contending for a title in the upcoming season. They would not like to part ways with Harris, but Tate would be a decent replacement for the 29-year-old. Tate is a great playmaker and a versatile defender. The Magic are also getting Victor and two second-round picks, which is a good deal for a rebuilding team.
Will the Magic choose to keep Harris and not do this deal at all? How will the Rockets line up next season? We’ll keep you updated.
