So this is kind of a weird one. I’ll try to do my best to explain why this works for each team below. But in essence, this trade keeps in mind all the teams current aspirations as well as future planning.
Knicks: The Knicks want a solid veteran who can fit in with this team and give the bench some much needed punch. Josh Hart does just that. Despite having a down year (which is why the price is so low to get him) he is a solid defender and if he rediscovers his 3 point shot, would be an amazing fit for the second unit. Plus he’s part of the Villanova group with Brunson and Arcidiacono. The Knicks seem to be looking for a backup center as Hartenstein has not worked out, especially given Thibs style. Bol Bol is having a great year and can be a rim protector but can also give some solid rebounding and can stretch the floor as well. He could even back up Randle some at PF given his shooting range. Finally RJ Hampton is here for salary purposes and could be swapped for any Magic player who they choose.
Magic: This is the one where I’m sure I’ll get some pushback. Bol Bol has clearly been a revelation for Orlando, especially given the cost to acquire him and his contract. However he still has a terrible injury history and it’s unlikely he sticks around after his contract is up. Meanwhile, the Magic get Obi (ugh, breaks my heart to type) who has shown a lot of potential and given his treatment on the Knicks, won’t have a huge salary demand if he resigns. They get 4 second round picks (Obi has to be at least worth a FRP so that’s part of why the Magic don’t get any FRPs for Bol Bol) and add to the huge list of prospects they are developing.
Blazers: While the Blazers are by no means contenders, this season has gone very well for them. Jerami Grant has been the perfect pickup and has been amazing for them. Lillard is healthy and Simons and Little continue to develop. However they’re staring at some hard decisions in the offseason and likely need to cut salary. Hart has been a solid player for him but they likely can’t afford him, especially if he opts out of his contract. They also probably need some more at the center position and get Hartenstein for a low price and on an affordable contract. Billups will be able to get more of him given that he actually has creativity on the offensive end. They also get Reddish and hope to develop him and given his lack of production, could resign him for less or let him walk. All in all, they get two younger players to develop for one vet who’s underperforming for them and a couple second round picks.
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