Following a promising year under the leadership of young stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, the Orlando Magic are set to make the next jump. The priority? A scoring playmaker who can put their offense to the next level and provide the franchise with its first playoff series victory since 2010.
NBA insider Marc Stein reports that Orlando might have their sights set on a homegrown product — Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons.
Anfernee Simons Trade Rumors Are Getting Hot
Magic's offense mostly relied on its big men and forwards, with Banchero, Wagner, and Wendell Carter Jr. on the scoring unit. However, their backcourt offense remains weak, and it cannot match what the frontcourt squad can contribute.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the 25-year-old Simons, who is an Orlando native, has become a main target of the Magic. Stein recently stated that Simons, a former backcourt tandem of Damian Lillard, is increasing as a trade candidate as his ability to score and his age fit into Banchero (22) and Wagner (23).
Simons averaged 19.3 points and 4.8 assists during the 2024 NBA season. While slightly lower than his consecutive 20+ point seasons, his scoring reliability makes him a perfect third option. His presence would take some of the playmaking pressure off Banchero and give the Magic a dynamic scoring guard who can space the floor.
With Portland in retool mode and Simons' name consistently mentioned in trade discussions alongside his teammates, such as DeAndre Ayton and Matisse Thybulle, an Orlando move could be a win-win.
Tyus Jones Also on Orlando's Radar
As much as Simons provides youth and scoring punch, Orlando can also look another way: veteran steadiness. Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox connected the Magic with Phoenix Suns guard Tyus Jones as a realistic and budget-friendly choice.
Jones, who signed a one-year, $3 million contract with Phoenix, averaged 10.2 points and 5.3 assists. Although he had a solid run with the Wizards during 2023–24 in which he reached career highs, Jones struggled for playing time in Phoenix behind Bradley Beal and became frustrated with his role.
Nevertheless, his ability to run an offense, guard the ball, and play intelligent basketball makes him a prize worth pursuing.
Jones, at age 28, provides a combination of veteran savvy and young speed that is unusual. His consistent availability, having played a minimum of 65 games in eight consecutive seasons, is a bonus.
Why the Magic Needs a Lead Guard This Offseason
The Magic were among the worst three-point shooting teams in the NBA and frequently had trouble finding offense late in games. Having a consistent ball handler who can create off the dribble, stretch the floor, and take some of the offense away from Paolo Banchero and Wagner is necessary for Orlando's future.
Both Simons and Jones bring different assets: Simons brings scoring punch and long-term potential, and Jones brings experience, composure, and consistent play. Either of them can be the missing element that makes Orlando a credible playoff contender.
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