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Aaron Gordon Trade Rumors: Blazers, Wolves Among Teams Targeting Magic Star
March 15, 2021
The Orlando Magic have reportedly been "open to listening to calls" regarding a trade for Aaron Gordon, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
The Minnesota Timberwolves and Portland Trail Blazers are among the teams showing interest, per Charania.
Gordon averages 13.6 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game in just 20 appearances this season. The 25-year-old has appeared in only one game since the start of February while dealing with an ankle injury.
He was initially diagnosed with a "severe left ankle sprain" with a timeline of four-to-six weeks. He played 14 minutes in the first game following the All-Star break but has then missed the last two for Orlando.
Despite his question marks, there is still interest in the talented forward.
Zach Lowe of ESPN reported in December "as many as 10, maybe more" teams called the Magic about a potential trade.
The 2014 No. 4 overall pick has showcased his athleticism in the Slam Dunk Contest as well as in games with the ability to help on both ends of the court. He was at his best in 2017-18 with averages of 17.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game.
If he returns to this level of play, his $16.4 million salary in 2021-22 could be worth the risk.
Portland could use more production from the post as the 22-16 squad tries to compete with the best teams in the Western Conference. Carmelo Anthony provides a boost off the bench and Robert Covington is a quality all-around player, but Gordon would do even more to strengthen the frontcourt and take pressure off Damian Lillard.
Minnesota (9-30) is still rebuilding but could take a chance on a promising young player who could be a key part of the building core with Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards.