The Orlando Magic made a bold move in mid-June by acquiring shooting guard Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies. This trade aims to strengthen the Magic’s lineup as they look to rapidly improve their performance. The Magic sent shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, point guard Cole Anthony, and multiple draft picks to Memphis in return.
The deal was significant for both teams. Memphis received Caldwell-Pope, who had been the Magic’s key free-agent signing last summer, along with Anthony, and four first-round draft picks. Specifically, the picks included the 16th overall selection in this season’s draft, a 2026 pick from Phoenix, and unprotected picks in 2028 and 2030, as well as a lightly protected pick swap in 2029.
For the Magic, Bane represents a big boost, especially given their longstanding need for reliable guards. As one of the best shooters in the NBA, his arrival is expected to open up the floor for other young talents like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, reinforcing the team’s commitment to winning in the near future.
On the other hand, Memphis appears to be entering a new phase. The haul they received allows them to reassess their roster and strategize their next steps. While it raises questions about the future of star player Ja Morant, the Grizzlies are now in a position to consider a more significant rebuild if needed.
The Magic’s trade sends a clear message to the rest of the league: they are serious about competing. With the Indiana Pacers making a strong showing in the Finals and former contenders like the Boston Celtics seemingly in decline, Orlando seems ready to accelerate their timeline for a potential championship run.
Despite the positive implications of adding Bane, the Magic still have areas to improve, especially in finding another playmaker and strengthening their center rotation. Currently, their options at center appear limited, with just Wendell Carter and Goga Bitadze available.
Bane’s capability to score—averaging 20.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists over the last two seasons—makes this trade a promising start for the Magic. Furthermore, parting ways with Caldwell-Pope’s hefty contract, which was $66 million over three years, is beneficial. Last season, he struggled with his shooting percentages, which made him look overpaid.
The cost for Orlando was steep, and only time will tell if it was too much to pay. When transitioning from flirting with playoff contention to actively seeking to secure a playoff spot, high stakes are involved. Yet, Bane’s skill set, particularly his three-point shooting range and ball-handling ability, could be just what Orlando needs.
With Bane now joining Banchero, Wagner, and Jalen Suggs, the Magic have established a strong four-man core that can contribute on both ends of the court. If Wagner can improve his three-point shooting—currently at 32.2% for his career—the team could be very competitive.
This offseason has already started on an exciting note with this trade, suggesting that a lively trade market could develop over the summer. The stakes are higher for teams looking to make a mark as the NBA prepares for a new season ahead.
