Damian Lillard Bucks Trade: Should Magic Deal for Blazers' Jrue Holiday?

Following Damian Lillard's trade to the Bucks, the Magic's climb to the top of the conference may have just gotten more difficult, and it may be time to enter the market for a defensively-minded guard.

In the wake of the recent blockbuster trade involving former Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard heading to Milwaukee to join Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Blazers are "engaged elsewhere" on deals to trade Jrue Holiday. 

The Blazers remain engaged elsewhere on deals and will are expected to immediately engage contending teams on trade talks to move on Jrue Holiday, sources tell ESPN. Portland is committed to its young group of talented guards. https://t.co/6IR7bcFVrr

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 27, 2023

Following this tidal wave of information, the dust settles and leaves behind a genuine question for many teams that are one piece away from contending. 

Holiday is one of the most consistent two-way players in the NBA, bringing all the qualities of a dependable point guard along with lockdown perimeter defense. The former Buck was an All-Star last season, averaging 19.3 points, 7.4 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. 

This leaves open the question for the young and blossoming core in Orlando. Holiday would tie together a lineup that could be one piece away from making a jump in the Eastern Conference rankings. 

Milwaukee Bucks guard Jrue Holiday (21) shoots the ball against Orlando Magic guard Markelle Fultz (20) during the second half at Amway Center / Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

While being a step up from the other guards on Orlando's roster, the Magic may need to think twice before dealing any of their young pieces for Holiday.

First of all, Holiday's age doesn't line up with what is the youngest rosters in the league. At 33 years old, it may take a while for the youth to mature in Orlando, and his age may prevent the guard from being what they Magic originally traded for.

Along with that, Holiday's presence in Orlando would just add to what is already a loaded position for the Magic, who already have Cole Anthony, Markelle Fultz, Anthony Black, and Jalen Suggs as potential players in that position.

It is hard to believe that bringing a fringe All-Star like Holiday would truly be good for the long-term success of the Magic. Of course, Holiday could help them to the playoffs, but a hasty decision to trade for him in this moment could very well prove ineffective for the young core that has been built in Orlando.