'I Thought it Was Fake' – Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant Gets 100% Real on the Desmond Bane Trade

Ja Morant expressed shock upon learning about the Memphis Grizzlies' trade of teammate Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic last month. The deal involved Memphis receiving Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony (who will reportedly join Milwaukee after a buyout), and multiple future draft picks in exchange for Bane. Morant admitted initially doubting the trade's authenticity when seeing it online.

Despite missing Bane as a teammate, Morant characterized the transaction as mutually beneficial. He believes Bane addresses Orlando's missing piece as "the piece they've been missing" on their talented roster, while simultaneously serving Memphis' interests.

The article notes Memphis' active offseason beyond this trade, highlighting their acquisition of Caldwell-Pope, Ty Jerome, and Jock Landale. The team also secured multi-year contract extensions for Santi Aldama, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Cam Spencer.

Morant specifically praised the new additions, describing Caldwell-Pope as a "big-time" veteran presence whose defensive expertise will mentor young players. Regarding Jerome, Morant emphasized his value as "another solid guard" and ballhandler who demonstrated significant contributions with Cleveland last season, capable of creating opportunities for both himself and teammates.