NBA Rumors: Aaron Gordon Expected To Be Traded, Boston Celtics Are Frontrunners

Aaron Gordon’s days with the Orlando Magic might be numbered. The power forward continues to be at the center of trade rumors, and reports indicate there’s a very good chance he’ll be moved by Thursday’s swap deadline.

Gordon has requested a trade from the Magic, according to The Athletic. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski said on “The Dan Patrick Show” on Tuesday he would be shocked if Gordon isn’t dealt.

Orlando is in trade discussions with several teams, one of which has emerged as the favorite to acquire the 25-year-old. The Boston Celtics are viewed as the frontrunners to strike a deal for Gordon, sources tell The Action Network.

Boston is willing to part with two first-round draft picks, according to the report. Evan Fournier would also be going to the Celtics in the deal that has been discussed, though terms have not been finalized.

Orlando has been eyeing guard Marcus Smart as part of a Gordon trade. Boston is reportedly hesitant to give up the back-to-back First Team All-Defense selection. The Atlanta Hawks have also been linked to Smart.

The Houston Rockets have pursued Gordon, according to reports. The Portland Trail Blazers, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets have also shown interest in the Magic forward.

Gordon has one year left on his contract. He has yet to meet the potential that many saw for him when he was taken with the fourth overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft.

Gordon averaged career-highs of 17.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game three years ago. For one of the worst teams in the league this season, Gordon is averaging 14.7 points and 6.8 rebounds. His 4.2 assists per game and 40.2% shooting from three-point range are career bests.

The Celtics have underachieved with a 21-22 record. Boston has had hopes of winning the East after three trips to the conference finals in the last four years. Boston is the currently the No. 8 seed in the East with 29 regular-season games left.