The Orlando Magic could be driven to a desperate trade for Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo this summer, if former Buck Charlie Villanueva is to be believed. On a recent episode of To the Baha, Villanueva made his stance on the matter clear, saying that he believes Giannis will wind up in Orlando in exchange for All-Star Paolo Banchero and picks, which could be a perfect package.
"You know I'm involved in the Milwaukee Bucks situation, I'm involved with organization somehow, someway. You know where he's going? Orlando Magic. Remember I said that. Giannis is going to the Orlando Magic. Paolo [Banchero], have a good night."
Starting a rebuild with Paolo would help inject the Bucks with desperately-needed talent while resetting the team's timeline entirely.
The Bucks could be very interested in a Magic trade package
Banchero has become a lightning rod for criticism this season as his efficiency has dropped and his team has failed to take the next step. It's true that Banchero's own lack of development has contributed to this stagnation, but injuries and poor coaching have also played a role. He could use a change of scenery with a new coach, and Milwaukee could be the perfect destination to revive his career.
At his best, Banchero is still an immensely talented forward with overwhelming physical tools. He made the All-Star game in just his second season and nearly led the Magic to a playoff series win that year. His stats this year are actually very similar to his All-Star campaign, but fans expected more.
This season, Banchero averaged 22 points, eight rebounds, and five assists per game (one of only four players to reach these marks). Ironically enough, Banchero was joined on that exclusive list by Giannis, as well as Atlanta's Jalen Johnson and Denver's Nikola Jokic.
What should be clear from the counting stats is that Banchero still has incredible potential that could be unlocked in the right situation.
In addition, the Magic can also sweeten the offer by adding draft picks. They've shown a willingness to give up sizable draft capital when they flipped five first-round picks for Desmond Bane last offseason. That does limit their arsenal for a Giannis trade, but also shows they're fine with sending out picks for a worthy star.
A Giannis-Paolo trade will have to wait for now
There are still some key dominoes to fall before this trade can go down. The Bucks are likely waiting on their results from the draft lottery before deciding on a course of action this summer. The Magic will also be waiting on the dust to settle from their postseason run.
After beating the Hornets on Friday night, the Magic will have at least four more games before the end of their season. They'll have a tough matchup against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons that will show them how they stack up against the East's best. If that series ends up being an overwhelming blowout for the Pistons, it could push the Magic to offer Paolo for Giannis.
Add us as a preferred source on Google