NBA Offseason Begins with a Bang
Introduction to the Trade
The NBA Finals is still ongoing, but the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic are already looking forward to next season. Memphis and Orlando executed the first blockbuster trade of the 2025 NBA offseason on Sunday, with Desmond Bane reportedly heading to the Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks and one first-round pick swap.
Details of the Trade
Orlando is sending to Memphis the No. 16 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Phoenix’s first-round pick in 2026, plus its own unprotected first-round picks in 2028 and 2030. The pick swap is lightly protected in 2029. ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the news on Sunday morning.
Impact on the Teams
Bane, who turns 27 later this month, will join an Orlando team that lost in the first round to the Boston Celtics, with a noticeable lack of offense holding the young roster back. He averaged 19.2 points per game for Memphis last season, shooting 41% from 3-point range over his five-year career. The Magic ranked last in 3-point percentage as a team in 2024-25 (31.8%).
While Memphis is giving up the best player in this trade, the haul of four unprotected first-round picks is a ransom. Caldwell-Pope and Anthony have been consistent veteran guards throughout their careers, too. KCP won championships with the Los Angeles Lakers (2020) and Denver Nuggets (2023), while Anthony has been with Orlando since being drafted in 2020.
Future Prospects
The Magic will use Bane to form a strong trio with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, especially in an Eastern Conference that will be up for grabs next season. Bane has four years and $163.2 million left on the max extension he signed with Memphis in 2023.
The trade is a significant move for both teams, with the Grizzlies looking to rebuild and the Magic seeking to become a serious contender in the East.
Conclusion
The trade between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic marks the beginning of a potentially exciting NBA offseason. With the move, both teams are looking to improve their chances of success in the upcoming season. The Grizzlies are gaining valuable draft picks and veteran players, while the Magic are acquiring a talented scorer to complement their young core.
FAQs
- Q: Who are the players involved in the trade?
A: Desmond Bane is being traded to the Orlando Magic, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony are heading to the Memphis Grizzlies. - Q: What draft picks are the Grizzlies receiving?
A: The Grizzlies are receiving the No. 16 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Phoenix’s first-round pick in 2026, Orlando’s unprotected first-round picks in 2028 and 2030, and a lightly protected first-round pick swap in 2029. - Q: How will this trade impact the Magic’s offense?
A: The addition of Desmond Bane is expected to significantly improve the Magic’s offense, particularly their 3-point shooting, which was the worst in the league last season. - Q: What are the contract details of Desmond Bane?
A: Bane has four years and $163.2 million left on the max extension he signed with Memphis in 2023.
