In one of the most seismic trades of the NBA offseason, the Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to trade star guard Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for veteran sharpshooter Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), dynamic point guard Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round draft picks, and one future first-round pick swap. The blockbuster deal, confirmed by multiple sources close to both organizations, signals a dramatic shift in philosophy for both franchises as they navigate very different timelines and aspirations.
For the Orlando Magic, acquiring Desmond Bane marks a bold and aggressive move toward contention. Fresh off their first playoff appearance in over a decade, the Magic have been seeking a reliable perimeter scorer and leader to complement their core of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. Bane, 26, fits the bill perfectly. Known for his elite three-point shooting, high basketball IQ, and defensive tenacity, Bane brings immediate offensive firepower and experience to a young roster that has been steadily climbing the Eastern Conference standings.
Last season, Bane averaged 21.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game while shooting over 39% from beyond the arc. His ability to create off the dribble and stretch the floor will give the Magic a new level of versatility on offense, helping to space the court for Banchero’s interior game and Wagner’s slashing ability. Bane also provides playoff experience, having been a key piece of the Grizzlies’ postseason runs over the past three seasons.
For Memphis, this trade represents a strategic pivot toward long-term flexibility and asset accumulation. While the Grizzlies have dealt with injuries and inconsistent chemistry in recent seasons, including the extended absence of superstar Ja Morant, they remain committed to building a sustainable contender around Morant and defensive anchor Jaren Jackson Jr. Trading Bane—arguably their most reliable two-way player—is a risky move, but the return haul offers massive upside.
In Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the Grizzlies receive a seasoned 3-and-D veteran with championship experience, having won titles with the Lakers in 2020 and the Nuggets in 2023. KCP will provide perimeter defense, floor spacing, and valuable locker room leadership for a Memphis squad looking to reset its identity.
Cole Anthony adds dynamic shot creation and a change-of-pace element to the Grizzlies’ backcourt rotation. Though he has been in a reserve role with the Magic, Anthony has shown flashes of brilliance as a scorer and playmaker and may thrive in a system where he’s given more freedom to operate.
However, the crown jewel of the trade for Memphis is undoubtedly the draft capital. Acquiring four unprotected first-round picks and a pick swap gives the Grizzlies a treasure trove of future assets that can be used to either restock their roster through the draft or leverage in future trades for star players. In an era where flexibility and long-term planning are critical, Memphis now possesses one of the
