NBA Rumors: Reports Conflict on Potential Orlando Magic Trade for Monta Ellis

Depending on which media outlet one consults, the Orlando Magic's rumored trade talks with the Golden State Warriors for scoring guard Monta Ellis--which also involve the league-owned New Orleans Hornets--are either "heating up" or "have no legs." Alex Kennedy of HOOPSWORLD confirms the earlier report Jarrod Rudolph of RealGM filed, saying the talks took place, while also indicating the discussions are "heating up," though "nothing is imminent." In the rumored trade, the Warriors would send Ellis, Dorell Wright, and Andris Biedrins to Orlando and receive some combination of players--possibly including Ryan Anderson and Hedo Turkoglu--from the Magic. The Warriors would also obtain center Chris Kaman from New Orleans.

However, Warriors beat writer Marcus Thompson III says the rumors of the Warriors sending Ellis to Orlando have "no legs," as Golden State isn't interested in making any Ellis deal with the Magic unless it receives All-Star center Dwight Howard in return. "Golden State sources have consistently said they want a star in return if they move Ellis," Thompson says. "Kaman, who is two years removed from his best year and is a free agent at season's end, doesn't qualify in the Warriors' minds."

The NBA trade deadline is Thursday at 3 PM Eastern.

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