Magic’s Ersan Ilyasova: Traded to Magic

Orlando is close to a deal which would send their 23-year-old gadget forward to Detroit.

Harris had largely been a disappointment to many fans after signing that big contract and seeing his scoring average drop to 13.7 points per game and maintaining his efficiency as a shooter (at least inside the paint).

Harris, whose production has dipped in Scott Skiles’ first season as Magic coach, stands as a classic buy-low pickup for Detroit. They will be excited to get a young shooter that will stretch the floor, hopefully opening up the floor for point guard Reggie Jackson.

“Ilyasova (6’10”, 235, 5/15/87) has played and started in 52 games this season with Detroit, averaging 11.3 ppg., 5.4 rpg. and 1.1 apg.in 27.6 minpg. Ilyasova is among the best in the National Basketball Association in taking charges and he was always one of the first Pistons to the loose ball. Although they are similar in many ways, Harris is an upgrade for the Pistons.

What’s the potential downside of this trade?

It seems a bit odd after all of these years and the rumored head-knocking that went on between the younger Jennings when he played under Skiles for the Milwaukee Bucks. But it makes sense now with Jennings coming back from injury in search of a starter’s role and Skiles in need of a steady, veteran hand at point guard as he tries to push the Orlando Magic to the next level. 369 (506-1,372) from three-point range. With the Pistons, Harris can just be another piece of the offense instead of being asked to lead the offense, as he was in Orlando. Although this means that Ilyasova has more experience, Harris should have more years left in his career, meaning more games for the Pistons.