NBA Trade Rumors: Exploring one splash move that every fringe contender should make to possibly win an NBA title.
With the NBA regular season hitting its stride now as we're getting to the 20-game mark, the contenders and non-contenders are beginning to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. By my count, there are roughly four no-brainer championship contenders (Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, and Phoenix Suns). There are then 13 fringe contenders that could make the move to legit contenders if they make a splash move at the NBA Trade Deadline.
In an attempt to get those 13 teams over the hump, we'll explore one splash move each of them can make to enter championship contender status.
Big trade fringe contenders should explore making to emerge as NBA Championship contenders
Orlando Magic
In this first deal, the Orlando Magic need some help in the backcourt, and taking a gamble on Zach LaVine wouldn't be the worst idea. Wherever LaVine lands next, he's going to have a huge chip on his shoulder. He's been somewhat counted out as a difference-maker and is seemingly the star player no one wants to pay a star price for.
Nevertheless, at some point soon, there's going to be one team that makes the conscious decision to take a shot on him. Maybe it's the Magic. They have two strong, developing pieces in Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. Adding LaVine could add an entirely different element that the Magic haven't had in the backcourt.
As polarizing as a player that LaVine should be at this point in his career, it could theoretically work in Orlando. With virtually no expectations, LaVine and the Magic could be a good match.