Monta Ellis (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic could work out a deal involving Monta Ellis and Nikola Vucevic.
The Pacers are struggling to keep up with contenders in the Eastern Conference, which could open up trade deals for Indiana before the February deadline. One of the potential moves the Pacers could consider is shipping Monta Ellis to the Orlando Magic, according to Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders.
"Not sure there is much the Pacers have to offer without ripping up the core, which I do not see them doing," Kyler wrote.
"I know they'd be open to moving Monta Ellis, but I am not sure what he returns. Maybe Orlando? I think they need a flat out scorer and there is some history with Vogel, but at this point, nothing is there."
The Magic could also be players in the trade market, with the team struggling to find minutes for their crowded frontcourt. Part of the logjam has cost Nikola Vucevic his starting job in Orlando, which could lead to a possible trade for the 26-year-old center, according to J. Michael of CNS Philadelphia.
"Nikola Vucevic is out of the starting lineup in Orlando, which has one of the league's most disjointed offenses," Michael wrote.
"Is this a permanent role for Vucevic and will this ultimately lead to one of the Magic's bigs being put on the trading block?"
Swapping Ellis for Vucevic could work for the Pacers, who could need another rebounding big man. The Pacers are 25th in the league in rebounding, with 42.4 team rebounds per game. Adding Vucevic, who is averaging 12.5 points and 11.4 rebounds a game, would provide the Pacers a big man who can crash the boards and contribute on the offensive end.
On the other hand, Orlando could use another scoring backcourt to shore up the team's offense. Ellis is only averaging 10.5 points a game this season, but his familiarity with Frank Vogel's schemes could see him a fitting piece the Magic could pursue.
It is unclear whether the Pacers would consider trading Ellis, as what the Magic could also do to Vucevic. But there is a growing sense both teams could consider moves if they wish to compete for a playoff spot.
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