Kyle Lowry would buy the Magic more time to find their future point guard

The Orlando Magic have enjoyed a strong 2023-24 season thus far. They're taking steps forward as a franchise, with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner leading the way. 

However, their need for a long-term solution at point guard continues to hinder their chances of further improvement. 

According to Matt Moore of The Action Network, veteran guard Kyle Lowry could emerge as a potential short-term fix. Lowry was recently traded to the Charlotte Hornets as part of the deal that sent Terry Rozier to the Miami Heat. He is expected to be available via trade ahead of the Feb. 8 deadline.

"Will Orlando commit assets that make it worth it for the Hornets if the alternative is just buying him out after the deadline, as Lowry has a $29 million expiring contract that will see him become an unrestricted free agent this summer?" Moore wrote. "For the Magic, they're in a unique position to send assets they are willing to part with if Lowry is content to stay in Orlando. It might provide the Magic with a way to add a veteran while they try to find long-term answers here, even if that answer is ultimately committing money to Markelle Fultz on a big extension."

Markelle Fultz has long been viewed as Orlando's guard of the future. However, his inability to stay healthy has likely shifted opinions within the front office. The urgency to find a lead ball-handler has likely increased due to the rapid development of Banchero and Wagner.

Lowry could be the ideal bridge. He would provide veteran leadership and steady on-court production. He certainly isn't the player he once was, but the value he would bring to a young and developing roster can't be understated. 

The veteran guard played in 37 games for the Heat this season, averaging 8.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and four assists, shooting 42.6 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from 3-point range.

However, Lowry's expiring contract may be a risk the Magic aren't willing to take. There's no point giving up trade assets for a player who could leave during the summer. 

As such, the Magic would likely seek assurances that he would re-sign, even if just for an additional year. After all, Orlando's front office will certainly want to do their due diligence on other potential targets while Lowry is bridging the gap.

Of course, a potential resurgence from Fultz could change everything. If the former first-round pick can prove he's past his injury issues, the Magic may choose to commit to him for the long haul.

Either way, Lowry's presence would benefit the franchise. Yet, a lot rests on Lowry's plans beyond this current season, as that could be the ultimate swing factor in any potential move.