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NBA trade rumor: Golden State Warriors, Orlando Magic could talk David Lee trade, according to report

Orlando and Golden State could be trade partners if the Dubs wish to clear salary-cap space, a report says.

David Lee
David Lee
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

In the wake of the 2014 NBA Draft Lottery, a new Orlando Magic trade rumor has surfaced, albeit one which doesn't necessary involve swapping any picks. According to Marcus Thompson II of the San Jose Mercury News, Orlando could be "a taker" for Golden State Warriors big man David Lee if Golden State elects to deal the two-time All-Star.

Thompson's theory: after missing out on a top-three pick in June's Draft--the Magic will select fourth--Orlando could instead push for a veteran of Lee's caliber in order to make the team more competitive. Further, Lee's interior-oriented game doesn't mesh with what new coach Steve Kerr envisions for his club.

"Lee could in essence be a one-year rental for the Magic," says Thompson. "After next season, he becomes a chunky expiring contract Orlando could use. At most, two years of that $15M+ salary is probably something Orlando would swallow if it means it can book 18 [points] and 10 [rebounds] every night."

In four seasons with the Warriors, Lee has averaged 18.2 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game on 51.3 percent shooting from the field. Thompson argues the former Florida Gator would serve as an upgrade over Tobias Harris at power forward in Orlando. It bears noting that Kyle O'Quinn, not Harris, earned that job as the Magic's 2013/14 season wound down.

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