The Orlando Magic are gearing up for a title run as Paolo Banchero steps into his prime, but the team's offensive struggles have prompted management to make significant changes. The latest move involved acquiring Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies, a response to the Magic's last-place finish in three-point shooting last season.

In exchange, the Grizzlies received Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, a haul of four unprotected first-round picks, and a pick swap. Caldwell-Pope's time in Orlando was underwhelming, averaging just 8.7 points while shooting a disappointing 34.2% from beyond the arc during the regular season, and even less in the playoffs.

With Bane now on board, the Magic are looking to bolster their scoring capabilities and improve their playoff performance as they strive to establish themselves as contenders in the Eastern Conference.

The Orlando Magic have made a significant move by acquiring Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies. In return, the Magic sent veteran Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four unprotected first-round picks. This trade aims to address Orlando's offensive struggles, especially after finishing 27th in offensive rating last season. Magic president Jeff Weltman emphasized the team's aspiration to win championships, not just compete for the Eastern Conference.

At the core of this strategy is the budding trio of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and now Bane, who boasts impressive scoring and shooting percentages. Bane arrives with a contract extension, providing long-term stability and elite shooting to a young core that has shown promise. This acquisition could be the catalyst needed for the Magic to elevate their game and compete more fiercely in the league.

The Orlando Magic have made headlines by acquiring Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies, signaling a strategic pivot toward a 'win-now' approach. This trade involved sending Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and significant draft capital, including a 2029 first-round swap and four unprotected first-round picks, to Memphis. Bane, known for his prolific 3-point shooting—making 164 shots from beyond the arc last season—is expected to address the Magic's offensive deficiencies.

Despite ranking second in defensive rating, the Magic struggled offensively, finishing 27th in overall scoring and dead last in 3-point shooting percentage. Bane's addition aims to enhance their perimeter scoring, complementing key players like Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs, while keeping the core intact. With their first-round pick now with the Grizzlies, the Magic’s upcoming draft strategy will focus on maximizing their remaining picks to further bolster the roster.

The Orlando Magic concluded a tumultuous 2024–25 season with a 41–41 record, clinching the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference. Despite promising performances, a lack of depth led to a swift playoff exit against the Boston Celtics. The loss highlighted the need for a reliable secondary scorer, prompting the Magic to secure Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies. In exchange, they parted with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and a significant package of future first-round picks.

Bane, previously a standout for Memphis, averaged nearly 20 points, showcasing his evolution into a two-way threat. With this acquisition, Orlando aims to enhance their playoff competitiveness and bolster their roster as they target a championship run.

The Orlando Magic have officially declared an end to their long rebuild by acquiring Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in a blockbuster trade. The deal, which involves Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and a significant package of future first-round picks, signifies the Magic's transition to a win-now mentality. At just 26, Bane is a prolific shooter, boasting over 800 made three-pointers and shooting an impressive 40% from beyond the arc. His arrival enhances the team's perimeter game and complements emerging stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

With this strategic move, Magic president Jeff Weltman sends a clear signal to the league: the team is ready to compete for a championship. Bane’s scoring and defensive capabilities align with the Magic's vision for building a youthful, competitive core. As the Magic move forward, they find themselves in a unique position to capitalize on a shifting NBA landscape where traditional powerhouses are fading.