Magic land elite two-way guard Desmond Bane from Grizzlies in blockbuster trade

The Orlando Magic have secured a major offseason acquisition, landing sharpshooting guard Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

In a headline-making trade amidst the NBA Finals, the Magic sent Kentavious Caldwell‑Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first‑round picks (including this year’s No. 16), and a pick swap to Memphis for the 6-foot-5 guard.

Bane, 26, arrives in Orlando on a five-year contract extension and recently averaged 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists on 48.4% shooting (39.2% from deep). Known for his two-way impact, Bane provides the much-needed offensive spark and shooting consistency the Magic have lacked, particularly after ranking near the bottom in three-point efficiency last season.

ANALYSIS: However, the cost to acquire a player like Bane was steep. Magic General Manager Jeff Weltman traded significant draft capital – four first-rounders plus a pick exchange – alongside veteran wings Caldwell‑Pope and Anthony. Orlando views this as a calculated all‑in move, banking on Bane's elite fit alongside Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs to elevate them from a No. 7 seed into true Eastern Conference contenders.

For Memphis, the returns include veteran depth, a massive haul of draft picks – including future options and a swap – and flexibility to reset under new coach Tuomas Iisalo. 

Bane adds perimeter shooting, playmaking, and defense, key to a deeper playoff run for the Magic. With the Celtics reeling and other teams in shakeups, Orlando aims to creep toward top-tier contention.