In a seemingly uninteresting signing Monday, the Orlando Magic may have made things very interesting for quite a few players and teams.
The team announced Monday it signed undrafted rookie forward Patricio Garino, who was photographed with his new contract.
The backdrop is critical! Especially when your photo shows the Orlando Magic's offseason targets… 🙃
Pictured: Rookie, Patricio Garino. pic.twitter.com/3oVTnF2zUs
— Big Ballers Podcast (@BBallersPodcast) April 3, 2017
What’s interesting is not the player or the contract itself, but rather what can be seen in the background. The whiteboard behind Garino contains the names of potential trade and free-agent targets.
The Magic May Target Dario Saric This Offseason According to their Leaked Target List https://t.co/m4olh5r2fv pic.twitter.com/i7QpJiNMgl
— Crossing Broad (@CrossingBroad) April 4, 2017
Perhaps most interesting of all is the presence of Philadelphia 76ers rookie Dario Saric, who apparently Orlando may be interested in acquiring in a deal including Aaron Gordon (AG).
It’s interesting that the Magic may be willing to give up Gordon already, who was drafted 7 spots ahead of Saric in the 2014 draft. Orlando actually originally drafted Saric with the 12th pick in 2014 but due to some witchcraft from Sixers GM Sam Hinkie, Magic GM Rob Hennigan was convinced to trade him to Philly for Elfrid Payton and some extra picks.
It’s hard to believe the Sixers would be willing to trade away Saric after what is increasingly likely to be a Rookie of the Year season. He’s a fan favorite and has the versatility​ to play inside and outside at the four spot. He’s even logged some minutes at center this season as the bench wears thin due to injury.
Saric is obviously seen as a valuable asset around the league. While it isn’t out of the question for the Sixers to move him should the right deal present itself, it’s unlikely Aaron Gordon is that guy. Rest easy Philadelphia, Super Dario is here to stay.
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
