Winners and Losers from Memphis Grizzlies-Orlando Magic Desmond Bane Blockbuster Trade

The Orlando Magic are trading Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks, and one first-round pick swap to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Desmond Bane. This trade represents a fundamental shift for both franchises and potentially signals broader team-building trends across the NBA.

Desmond Bane has established himself as a high-level player with the Grizzlies, averaging over 20 points and 4 assists per game for the past four years while hitting over 40% of his 7.0 three-point attempts per game, a feat matched only by Stephen Curry in that span. His role with the Magic is expected to remain similar, potentially involving more playmaking duties which his driving decision-making suggests he can handle. Although Paolo Banchero remains the primary option, Bane's value will continue to lie in his elite shooting and secondary creation. Moving to the Eastern Conference provides Bane a better opportunity for All-Star recognition and championship contention.

The trade impacts Jaren Jackson Jr.'s contract extension prospects with the Grizzlies. Previously, Memphis had roughly $7 million in cap space, potentially allowing them to renegotiate Jackson's 2025-26 salary to about $30.4 million and then offer a four-year, $190.8 million extension. However, after factoring in the cost to sign the No. 16 pick, the Grizzlies now have under $5 million in space. This reduces the possible renegotiation offer to around $28 million for next season, followed by a four-year, $175.6 million extension. Jackson may choose to wait for unrestricted free agency in 2026 to pursue a larger max contract, potentially worth up to $228.6 million over four years or $296 million over five years with Memphis.

The Magic, acquiring Bane, have struggled offensively for years. They haven't finished with a top-15 offense since the Dwight Howard era and haven't ranked outside the bottom third since 2017. Last season, they finished 26th in points per possession, hampered by a lack of creation and shooting.