The Orlando Magic have reached an agreement to acquire guard Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in a blockbuster trade, sending a significant package in return.
The deal will send Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four future first-round draft picks, and a lightly protected first-round pick swap to Memphis in exchange for the high-scoring guard.
Due to salary cap implications and tax apron restrictions, the transaction is expected to be finalized before the NBA’s new league year begins on July 1.
The draft compensation headed to the Grizzlies is substantial.
Orlando will part with the 16th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, a 2026 first-round pick originally belonging to the Phoenix Suns, the Magic’s first-round picks in 2028 and 2030, as well as a lightly protected pick swap in 2029.
This aggressive draft capital outlay reflects Orlando’s commitment to upgrading its offensive firepower.
The Magic have been searching for perimeter shooting and scoring to complement rising stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, and Bane is expected to fill that role effectively.
The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 19.2 points per game last season and boasts career shooting splits of 47% from the field, 41% from three-point range, and 88% from the free-throw line.
In addition to his elite shooting, Bane brings strong perimeter defense and secondary playmaking, making him a well-rounded fit for Orlando’s young, defense-first roster.
For Memphis, this trade serves both short- and long-term purposes. Financially, the move helps ease future payroll pressure, as Bane is under a sizable contract.
That’s an important consideration for the Grizzlies, with key contract decisions looming: forward Santi Aldama is set to become a free agent this summer, and All-Star big man Jaren Jackson Jr. will be extension-eligible as soon as next offseason.
By clearing Bane’s salary, Memphis could free up enough cap room to pursue a renegotiation and extension with Jackson in the near term.
In terms of personnel, the additions of Caldwell-Pope and Anthony give the Grizzlies much-needed depth in the backcourt behind star point guard Ja Morant.
Caldwell-Pope brings championship experience, perimeter defense, and three-point shooting on a reasonable contract, while Anthony offers energy and scoring off the bench at a manageable salary.
Overall, this trade reflects a strategic gamble by Orlando to fast-track its rise in the Eastern Conference by adding a proven scorer in Bane.
Meanwhile, Memphis retools with future flexibility, added depth, and a war chest of draft assets to build around its young core.
Magic Acquire Desmond Bane From Grizzlies For Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, Four First Round Picks https://t.co/VqB3HV4mYq
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 15, 2025
