The Wilson Chandler Trades, Part I: The Eastern Conference
By Tim Hart
Orlando Magic
ESPN’s NBA Trade Machine Results: Magic Unaffected, Nuggets Unaffected
Another clean switcheroo. The Nuggets need a PF who can spread the floor, and the Magic need a reliable starting SF.
Why the Magic would do it:
They have a starting PF in Aaron Gordon. Gordon is a big name, capable of drawing in big crowds, and putting up great numbers. His range has shows great improvement, and his legendary performance in last year’s dunk contest suggests an inherent rebounding and shot blocking ability. With Ibaka on the team, Gordon would only be allowed to further develop as an SF, which he could do. Still, Gordon seems better suited for the PF position, and other than Jeff Green, a player plagued by inconsistency, the Magic lack any other SFs. Swapping out Ibaka for Chandler could simply mean a better fit for both players/teams.
Why the Nuggets would do it:
Ibaka’s three-point abilities would make him a valuable addition to the Nuggets. They stand very little to lose by trading away Chandler, and Ibaka’s size and defensive abilities, along with the Nuggets’ current offensive needs at the PF position, make him a far more valuable player (to them) than Chandler. The Nuggets should take this deal without blinking, should it ever be offered.
Next: Philadelphia 76ers