Crafting a mock trade between Bucks, Lakers and Magic based on recent rumors

The Magic's POV

After returning to the NBA Playoffs this past season, the Magic have been very busy this off-season as they try to cement themselves as a contender. They added one of the best 3-and-D wings on the market in Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and retained several of their own free agents, putting together as much talent as possible. There's no reason to believe they are done just yet.

Countless outlets have reported that the Magic have shown interest in D'Angelo Russell over these last few months. Previously, it was possible that they could go after him in free agency, but after he accepted his player option, the only way to do so now is via trade. If they want to keep beefing up their roster, making a move for Russell would make some level of sense.

The guard could bring more scoring and playmaking to form a lethal trio alongside Paolo Banchero and the recently-extended Franz Wagner. As they aim to take the next step as a franchise, Russell's presence could give the Magic their point guard of the future, as he's still just 28, while helping them compete in the present.

If they go after Russell, moving Carter makes sense for the Magic, given Orlando's other transactions this off-season. They handed new contracts to Jonathan Isaac, Mortiz Wagner and Goga Bitadze. See a patern? Those are all centers, leaving Orlando's frontcourt pretty crowded. If they could move one of them for a quality guard, it would make sense. Carter seems like the logical choice.