The Orlando Magic’s guard Jalen Suggs is very close to joining the Lakers this summer. It is well known that LeBron James can retire anytime soon, and the Lakers would like to experiment with their roster so that they can keep things going after James leaves.
The Lakers were linked with a lot of young players in this summer’s trade window, and they might have got what they were looking for. The Lakers would possibly be asking themselves about how long they can rely on Anthony Davis and LeBron James. Can they land another soldier to their young army by signing the Magic’s Suggs? Here is all the information you need about the trade between the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Lakers involving Jalen Suggs.
What would the Lakers offer for Jalen Suggs?
This is going to be a swap trade where the Magic would get Jarred Vanderbilt from the Lakers, and the Lakers would get Jalen Suggs in return. The Magic might consider this as the high time when they start making changes for the better. Currently, their roster is centered around Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, and they can choose to strengthen their squad now.
The Magic could place Jalen Suggs or Cole Anthony on the trade block if they draft a guard, per @JakeLFischer
“Orlando has left various personnel with the impression that drafting a guard like Ausar or Black would lead the Magic to exploring trade opportunities for one of Suggs… pic.twitter.com/kL7FeoGT92
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 21, 2023
Why would the Magic let Jalen Suggs go?
The Magic is rumored to be looking for a shooter, but neither of the two players involved in the deal is good enough at that. The trade is being done by them to get an alternative for their injury-prone Jonathan Isaac. Vanderbilt is somewhat similar to Isaac and can get the job done for them.
With the Magic drafting Anthony Black at No. 6, have to wonder what happens next for their guard rotation.
Not enough adequate minutes to go around between Black, Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, and Cole Anthony.
Orlando could be very active in trade talks soon.
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 23, 2023
Why would the Lakers like to sign Jalen Suggs?
The Lakers are taking a risk here, Suggs has been non-impressive. People had expected a lot from him, but he underperformed. But he has potential; he is a top-notch defender. The Lakers probably see him as someone who is worth taking a shot at. His passing and subpar shooting would make the Lakers a better team, for sure.
The Magic should get it done with their rebuilding phase. Getting Vanderbilt is good, but he is just a backup. Anyways, will the Lakers take the risk? We’ll keep you updated.
