The North Carolina Tar Heels likely won’t have a player drafted in Thursday’s 2023 NBA draft but it could have implications on one former layer.
Former first-round pick Cole Anthony could be on the trade block after a few seasons in Orlando. The Magic have a crowded backcourt and with the No. 6 pick, they could be looking at a guard. If they do take someone like Anthony Black or Ausar Thompson, it could mean Anthony or Jalen Suggs could be traded.
Here is what NBA reporter Jake Fischer wrote on Anthony’s situation in Orlando:
Black’s camp initially showed resistance to working out for the Magic, sources said, because of Orlando’s perceived logjam in the backcourt with a trio of first-round guards in Markelle Fultz, Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony. Anthony will become extension eligible this summer and is considered to have a great relationship with the Magic front office, but Orlando has left various personnel with the impression that drafting a guard like Ausar or Black would lead the Magic to exploring trade opportunities for one of Suggs or Anthony.
Anthony has spent three seasons in Orlando with the Magic and is averaging 14.2 points, 5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game in his career. After being a starter, Anthony has found his role off the bench last season for a young Magic team that is in a rebuild.
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