Orlando Magic: 7 Trade deadline targets to cement status as a top 4 team in the East

Exploring seven veteran trade targets that could help cement the Orlando Magic as a top 4 team in the Eastern Conference.

Through the first 20 games of the season, the Orlando Magic continue to prove that they have the potential to play with anyone in the league. In fact, they're currently tied for the second seed with a 14-6 record in the Eastern Conference.

Even for the most optimistic of Magic fans, I'm not sure there were many expecting this level of play from such a young, developing team. Let's remember, the Magic didn't even make the playoffs this past season. Making the jump from a non-playoff team to a top 4 seed in the East would be pretty rare territory for a team. But the Magic have the opportunity to do that this season.

In an attempt to cement their status as one of the four best teams in the East, the Magic could explore adding a veteran difference-maker at the deadline for the stretch run. Let's explore seven potential candidates that could fit what the Magic are looking for.

Bojan Bogdanovic, Detroit Pistons

Over the next few weeks, especially if the Detroit Pistons continue to struggle, Bojan Bogdanovic is going to be a hot name on the trade rumor mill. Bogdanovic still has one year remaining on his contract after this season, but as a soon-to-be 35-year-old, it would be surprising if he was kept on the Pistons roster beyond the trade deadline.

It's understandable that the Pistons wanted to keep Bogdanovic to use as a veteran bridge as their young players began to grow and develop. However, the Pistons are so far from making a jump to relevancy in the Eastern Conference that they are better off trading him at the deadline and getting something for him.

For a team like the Magic, who will likely be looking for some veteran guidance heading into the playoffs, Bogdanovic could work next to the young Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. Especially if it is just for 1-2 seasons.