The Orlando Magic do not appear to be going anywhere this season which has opened the team up to trade talks heading into the deadline. Orlando is a team filled with youth, but they are looking to get experience on the roster to help push the franchise forward. As a result, Tobias Harris has been made available, but his price tag will certainly be high for any team interested.
According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the Magic are not actively shopping Harris, but they are willing to listen to offers for the forward heading into the deadline. A lot of teams have taken this approach with some of their biggest stars which means they are always willing to answer the phone, but the chances a deal gets done is slim to none. Regardless, if the report is true, interest could be high in Harris who signed a four-year, $64 million deal last summer and is filled with potential. At 23, Harris would be an excellent addition to a number of teams. Could the Toronto Raptors show interest as they look to topple the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference?
According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN.com, the Raptors are looking to get involved at the trade deadline and Harris could catch their attention. Right now the team has been linked to deals for players like Markieff Morris and Kenneth Faried. Harris could be joining the mix as Toronto is in "win-now" mode. The Raptors' window for a championship is closing as DeMar DeRozan prepares to potentially depart in free agency. Getting one last big name could be what they need to overtake the East.
A deal for Harris makes sense. The Raptors have the cap space to trade for him and keep him while injuries to players DeMarre Carroll make the need great. Fox Sports suggest that the Raptors also have the trade pieces to entice the Magic as they need to get experience on the roster. Carroll could be a target in order to get the salaries to match. The forward signed a big deal in free agency, but has barely played thanks to knee issues. Harris could step in immediately and fill the void. Patrick Patterson and James Johnson could also be added to a trade package.
Harris will not be an easy trade because of his contract. Teams like the Washington Wizards or Chicago Bulls could also be interested as they need immediate playmakers, but they would have to give up a lot to get him. The Wizards might not be willing to put Bradley Beal into a trade while the Bulls would have to send someone like Joakim Noah or Taj Gibson. The Raptors are the best option.