The Magic are quickly approaching the 2nd apron with new large deals for Franz and Suggs going into effect and Banchero due for a new deal after next season (Summer 2026). I can see them trying to create some wiggle room to make other moves down the road.

Magic do this trade because they were last in 3 point shooting and pace of play. Knecht was projected top be a lottery pick last year before falling to the Lakers with the 17th pick. Knecht remains under team control with his rookie deal. Simons is a good, young all around player and will help increase the pace of play for the Magic. This deal also saves them $7.8M in the current year and about $30.5M or $17.4M next year (depending on options). They would have to resign Banchero and Simons in 2026, and might have to salary dump Jonathan Isaac due to the structure of his deal (Magic played him 15.5 mpg and pay him between $14.5M-$15M through 2028-29 depending on health).

Blazers do this to give Scoot more playmaking duties and bring a reliable back up PG in Cole Anthony and a veteran presence with KCP. They also pick up additional draft picks.

Lakers do this to address the C position.

Alternatively, if the Magic want to salary dump Jonathan Isaac as part of this trade to clear up more cap space in 2026 to resign/extend Banchero and Simons, Lakers would get Jonathan Isaac instead of Gary Harris and Magic would also take on Gabe Vincent's expiring contract.