The Orlando Magic and Golden State Warriors are engaged in "ongoing" trade talks to bring shooting guard Monta Ellis to Orlando, reports Jarrod Rudolph of RealGM. The rumored deal, which is not "imminent," would team Ellis with Dwight Howard, says Rudolph.
Ellis, 26, is averaging 22.2 points, 5.7 assists, and 1.4 steals for Golden State during the 2011/12 season, shooting 43.1 percent from the field and 30.3 percent on three-pointers. His ability to create his own shot and command defensive attention on the perimeter would certainly add spark to an Orlando offense which has stagnated for much of the season. He would also give the Magic a definitive go-to scorer in late-game, isolation situations.
Bill Ingram of HOOPSWORLD reported prior to the start of the season that Howard named Ellis as a player he'd like management to target via trade. Howard can leave the Magic via free agency in the summer and has requested a trade to either the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, or New Jersey Nets.
Orlando Pinstriped Post analyzed Ellis' game in July, when another rumor linked the Magic to the high-scoring guard.
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