The Orlando Magic aren't known to make trades during the season, even ahead of the deadline. It's not that the organization doesn't entertain conversations, but they hardly come across any deals. However, during the 2021 season, the front office decided to move on from stars Nikola Vucevic and Aaron Gordon. That was when the Magic rebuild initially began.
It has led to the current Paolo Banchero era, which is carving out championship aspirations. They have the pieces to be one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference. The team already has one of the best defenses in the league, and also hopes to improve significantly after acquiring Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones.
Despite having an excellent roster on paper, the front office has a responsibility to improve it when opportunities arise.
Dennis Schroder was one of the biggest free agents this summer, before signing with the Sacramento Kings on a three-year, $44.43 million contract. He has played for nine different teams throughout his 12-year career. However, his journey all over the league doesn't mean he isn't valued.
Schroder is an excellent point guard who can provide scoring on all three levels and defend with tremendous effort. Some would even describe him as a "pest" on the court.
Last season, Schroder began with the Brooklyn Nets, spent nearly two months with the Golden State Warriors, then finished with the Detroit Pistons.
The veteran guard played a significant role in the "Motor City's" success, especially after Jaden Ivey's season-ending injury.
Schroder averaged 13.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and shot 40.6 percent from the field, 34.2 percent from three-point range in 75 appearances between all destinations. It's a testimony to how he quickly adapts and fits into any system.
The Kings are in a confusing situation, especially after firing Mike Brown and trading All-Star guard De'Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs. They have other great pieces in Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and DeMar DeRozan. However, if the team fails to compete in the loaded Western Conference, they may be forced into a fire sale.
That scenario would include Schroder, which will have many suitors interested. It would be wise for the Magic to take part in the potential sweepstakes. Not only would he instantly fit into Jamahl Mosley's system, but he also has chemistry with Franz Wagner and Tristan Da Silva.
All three players spent their summer together in the EuroBasket tournament, competing for Team Germany. They played a significant role in their success in winning gold and the title.
Schroder averaged 20.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists, the second-most among all players, and shot 46.2 percent from the field, 32.8 percent from three-point range. He was also named the EuroBasket Most Valuable Player.
Schroder would be a tremendous help in the Magic's quest for a championship.
Here is what a Schroder-Magic trade could look like:
Magic receive: Dennis Schroder
Kings receive: Tyus Jones, Goga Bitadze, 2027 second-round pick (BOS' own) and a 2029 second-round pick (ORL's own)
It may be a heavy price, but for a player such as Schroder who can impact winning right away, it's worth the gamble, especially for a championship.
Jones is one of the most underrated point guards in the league, but would provide value on an expiring contract. Bitadze also had an excellent stint with EuroBasket on Team Georgia, which makes him a good piece to the package.
The Magic could easily fill that center depth void by converting Orlando Robinson to a standard contract, who is currently on a two-way deal. He proved to be a decent rotation player with the Miami Heat.
The Magic are in a great position to compete for a championship, but can't afford any shortcomings, despite having young stars. Given the current collective bargaining agreement, championship windows can open and close in an instant. The organization needs to capitalize on every opportunity.