MILICIC, ARROYO TO ORLANDO
The Orlando Magic acquired forward Darko Milicic and guard Carlos Arroyo from the Detroit Pistons for center Kelvin Cato and a first-round draft pick in 2006.
What does it give the Orlando Magic
A player who may still become a superstar, and one who may (along with Dwight Howard) give Orlando a 'twin towers' front line. Granted, Darko hasn't lived up to being chosen second overall in the 2003 draft ahead of superstars Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and Carmelo Anthony; But that said, big men often take a little longer to develop and Darko is still only 20 years old. He showed in the preseason he's ready to contribute, and he has the potential to become another Pau Gasol in time. The inclusion of Carlos Arroyo in the deal is interesting because the Magic don't really need him with all their point guard depth÷meaning they may be getting ready for the long-rumored trade of Steve Francis.
What does it give the Detroit Pistons
Security for the future. This deal not only gives Detroit a first-round pick, but in Cato's expiring contract they free up the cap money to re-sign all-star center Ben Wallace. Cato is suffering through an ankle injury and even if he were healthy he wouldn't likely contribute much to the NBA-leading Pistons. His $8 Million contract, however, comes off the books in the summer and that frees up cash to bring back Big Ben. The first-rounder is for next yearÙs draft, and it's conditional on not being a top-5 pick. If it is top-5, the Magic get it back and send the Pistons their 2008 first-rounder. Either way, Detroit will take it for Darko, whom they seem to have given up on too soon.
Fantasy impact
