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[Saba Sports News] The Orlando Magic made a major move on Sunday by trading for Desmond Bane, giving them a much-needed scoring boost—but fans overwhelmingly felt there was a clear winner in the deal.
Orlando landed Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and a future first-round pick swap.
Bane, known for his sharpshooting, averaged 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 69 games this season. A career 41.0% shooter from three, Bane addresses a glaring weakness for the Magic, who ranked dead last in the NBA in three-point percentage.
Despite that, most fans felt the price Orlando paid was far too high. Many pointed out that the Grizzlies managed to get a bigger haul for Bane than what the Mavericks received in the widely criticized Luka Doncic deal with the Lakers.
Magic president Jeff Weltman has said the team is focused on building around Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs—and acquiring Bane certainly aligns with that plan. But public sentiment suggests that while the fit makes sense, the cost does not.
Orlando finished the season 41-41, clinching the No. 7 seed and advancing through the play-in before falling to the Boston Celtics in five games. The Bane trade shows they’re aiming higher—but many believe they may have overpaid to get there.