NBA Moves: Desmond Bane to Orlando Magic in a Mega-Trade
The NBA offseason is just around the corner, and with it, the trade season has already begun. The Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic have made a move that shakes up the league. The agreement, according to sources, involves the transfer of Desmond Bane to the Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks, and a swap of future picks. This transfer has set off the alarms, and more important moves are expected to occur in the coming weeks.Orlando Magic receives:
- G Desmond Bane
Memphis Grizzlies receive:
- G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
- G Cole Anthony
- 2025 First Round Pick
- 2026 First Round Pick (Phoenix or Washington swap rights)
- 2028 First Round Pick
- 2029 First Round Pick Swap
- 2030 First Round Pick
This move is reminiscent of the New York Knicks, who traded multiple first-round picks for Mikal Bridges. These types of deals raise questions about the real value of players and the price to pay to obtain them. For the Magic, Bane’s arrival could be key. His shooting ability is a great asset for a team that struggled from the three-point line last season. In addition, his development as a secondary playmaker could complement players like Paolo Banchero, Jalen Suggs, and Franz Wagner. However, Orlando’s success will depend on Suggs’ health and the development of Banchero and Wagner. The franchise faces financial challenges, including the possibility of paying the luxury tax in 2025-26. Regarding Memphis, the situation is different. The team seeks to rebuild after a disappointing season. Bane’s departure, along with the need for high-level talent, complicates the outlook for the Grizzlies. In the short term, Memphis could improve with the arrival of Caldwell-Pope and Anthony. The team could seek additional moves, including the renewal of Jaren Jackson Jr.’s contract. Despite the selections obtained in this trade, Memphis’ fundamental problem persists: the need for Ja Morant to regain his stellar level. Until then, the Grizzlies could be in a restructuring process. The NBA trade season is just beginning, and this move between the Grizzlies and the Magic is just the first chapter of what promises to be a summer full of surprises.The Magic’s operation is graded with a C+.
Alofoke Deportes
