Anthony Black Emerges as the Key to Orlando Magic’s Trade Deadline Plans
The Orlando Magic are at an interesting crossroads this season, and much of the team’s fate seems to hinge on one young player: Anthony Black. In just over a month of action, Black has already shown flashes that suggest he could define not only his own career trajectory but also the direction of the Magic’s trade strategy in the coming months.
The NBA trade rumor mill is already spinning, with teams like the Kings, Pelicans, and Grizzlies making headlines for potential overhauls. While it’s still early, the Magic have quietly become a team to watch as they approach the Dec. 15 trade deadline. What’s become clear is that Orlando’s next moves could largely depend on how Anthony Black develops this season. The Magic have entrusted him with a bigger role, particularly after acquiring Desmond Bane and with Moe Wagner sidelined by injury. Whether he thrives as a starter or continues to provide energy off the bench, Black’s growth is being closely monitored.
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So far, Black is showing encouraging signs. He’s averaging a career-high 10.5 points per game while shooting nearly 46 percent from the floor and maintaining solid efficiency attacking the basket. His improved finishing on drives — over 54 percent — signals that he’s becoming more assertive and confident, a quality the team has been pushing him to embrace. Magic coach Jamahl Mosley and teammates like Franz Wagner have repeatedly encouraged him to set the tone on both ends of the court, and Black’s recent performances show he is beginning to answer that call.
The numbers tell an intriguing story. When the Magic win, Black shoots over 40 percent from three, but in losses, that figure drops sharply. That inconsistency highlights what the team sees as both his potential and his current limitation: when Black is confident and aggressive, the Magic are a different team. The hope is that, as the season progresses, he can become a consistent scoring threat from beyond the arc and a reliable playmaker, unlocking the team’s full potential.
Even in moments where he comes off the bench, Black has proven he can make an impact. His 21-point performance against the Warriors is a prime example, where his aggressive drives, timely finishing, and defensive effort helped Orlando secure a crucial victory. His leadership in those moments — inspired by guidance from veterans like Tyus Jones — has underscored his growing importance.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Magic are evaluating options to improve scoring depth, particularly off the bench, where injuries have created gaps. Whether that means pursuing players like Dennis Schroder or Malik Monk, or potentially moving players for better value, the team’s decisions are being influenced by how Anthony Black progresses. Simply put, the Magic go as Black goes. His development may determine whether Orlando adds pieces at the deadline or remains patient, waiting for their young star to fully come into his own.
For now, all eyes are on Anthony Black. The next three months will be telling — not just for him, but for the Magic’s season and their plans for the future. His evolution from promising rookie to consistent contributor could shape the trajectory of the entire team.
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