The NBA season is still underway, but we already have a big move.
The Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic just completed a deal that will leave fans talking for days.
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, the Magic will send Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and one first-round pick swap to the Grizzlies in return for Desmond Bane.
Breaking: The Grizzlies are trading Desmond Bane to the Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks and one first-round pick swap, sources tell @ShamsCharania.
Get breaking news alerts from Shams Charania through the ESPN app:… pic.twitter.com/fuDSv0byqF
— ESPN (@espn) June 15, 2025
Bane has emerged as a solid three-level scorer, often being the Grizzlies’ go-to guy, especially when Ja Morant has missed time.
The Magic tried to solve their spacing issues with Caldwell-Pope, but he didn’t have a good season on offense.
Bane will give them another floor spacer next to Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, not to mention another 20-point-per-game scorer.
He can also hold his own on defense.
Nevertheless, perhaps four first-round picks plus a first-round pick swap was a steep price to pay for Bane.
The Magic clearly believe they’re closer to championship contention than to the NBA Draft lottery, and while that seems to be the case, we’ve seen how quickly things can change in the league.
The Grizzlies also added a solid backup point guard in Anthony, who should provide an instant offensive spark off the bench behind Morant.
Caldwell-Pope is a seasoned veteran with championship experience and a 3-and-D expertise, and he fits their identity.
They could also look to redirect him somewhere else.
The Grizzlies got a massive haul of draft picks, and with Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially up for grabs, they might be gearing up for a bigger move.
NEXT: Latest Odds Reveal New Betting Favorite To Land Kevin Durant