NBA Rumors: Monta Ellis Could Reunite With Former Coach In Trade To Orlando Magic
NBA rumors are beginning to swirl around the Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis as the team remains just outside of the last Eastern Conference playoff spot, according to a recent report.
Basketball Insiders publisher Steve Kyler hinted that the Indiana Pacers would only consider trading Monta Ellis this season in his recent weekly chat. The basketball expert explained why Monta Ellis could be a good target for former coach Frank Vogel and his new team, the Orlando Magic.
“Not sure there is much the Pacers have to offer without ripping up the core, which I do not see them doing. 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.”
At 31-years-old, Monta Ellis is the oldest starter and one of the highest-paid members of the Indiana Pacers. The NBA franchise could unload the aging scorer via trade to free up salary cap space, or Monta Ellis could be used to acquire a younger player that would fit in with their youthful core.
The rumors about the Orlando Magic being a potential trade partner for Monta Ellis appear to be true. The NBA franchise could be open to trade multiple players who are nearing the end of their current contracts, a desirable trait for a team looking to clear salary cap space for next season’s free agents, the Orlando Sentinel reported.
“It’s unclear whom the Magic would be willing to part with in a trade. But their assets include several players who are in the final season of their contracts: Jeff Green, Serge Ibaka, Jodie Meeks and C.J. Wilcox. The Magic also have C.J. Watson, whose 2017-18 salary is only partially guaranteed.”
(FOX Sports) #Orlando #Magic Rumors: #Orlando #Magic intend to seek scoring in trade.. https://t.co/OiXTBD1mqB pic.twitter.com/TInARoKzCb
— StoriesFlow.com (@storiesflowcom) December 6, 2016
The Orlando Magic are looking for scoring help, which is where Monta Ellis could come in handy. The 12-year veteran has a career scoring average of over 18 points a game although his recent seasons with the Indiana Pacers have made that average dip. Still, Monta Ellis could be the offensive spark the Orlando Magic are desperately seeking.
“Scoring has been their Achilles’ heel. Despite a recent uptick in ball movement and shooting, the Magic entered Monday ranked 29th in the NBA in points scored per possession.”
Monta Ellis signed with the Indiana Pacers in 2015 on a four-year, $44 million contract, Sports Illustrated reported at the time. The veteran journeyman has played for four different NBA franchises with time spent in Golden State, Milwaukee and Dallas before signing his latest contract with the Indiana Pacers.
Monta Ellis is far from the only name currently being mentioned in NBA rumors, according to the Inquisitr. The largest names looming for a potential trade include Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins and Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel. The Milwaukee Bucks are also shopping center Greg Monroe after the productive player has been relegated to the bench much of this season.
Unlike the situation with the Indiana Pacers and Monta Ellis, other NBA rumors have focused on teams ready to surrender almost anyone on their roster in order shake things up. Rumors suggest the Washington Wizards will listen to trade offers for as many as six of their current players while the Minnesota Timberwolves are said to be considering a trade for one of their young stars.
Do you believe the NBA rumors that Monta Ellis could be headed to the Orlando Magic if the Indiana Pacers decide to make a trade this season? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.
[Featured Image by Andy Lyons/Getty Images]
