The Orlando Magic made a bold move by trading for Desmond Bane, but not everyone is impressed by the decision. Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas aired the deal on his podcast, Gil’s Arena, addressing Magic as dumb for making such a move. At the same time, the trade signals a possible pivot towards rebuilding.
Bane is a consistent two-way performer who averages 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. The Magic sees him as a perfect fit alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner as they push toward playoff contention. However, critics like Arenas believe Magic paid too steep a price for a player who has far more work to prove his superstar status.
“The Orlando Magic didn’t get fleeced [in the Desmond Bane trade], they’re just dumb!” Gilbert said bluntly.
"The Orlando Magic didn't get fleeced [in the Desmond Bane trade], they're just dumb!"
— Gil’s Arena (@GilsArenaShow) June 17, 2025
Gil reacts to the Memphis Grizzlies sending Bane to Orlando for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks, and a pick swap. pic.twitter.com/eGcmHeYEyZ
Orlando gave up Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and a pick swap to acquire the Memphis Grizzlies’ sharpshooter. From Grizzles‘s perspective, they are more focused on developing long-term flexibility. The haul of picks gives them plenty of leverage heading into the offseason.
The magic’s aggressive gamble will be closely watched. If Bane elevates magic to serious contention, the deal may silence critics. But if not, this trade could haunt the franchise for years.
Former Orlando Magic All-Star Supports Kentavious Caldwell-Pope For His Future
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Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s time with the Orlando Magic ended abruptly after just one season. Magic traded the veteran guard, Cole Anthony, and multiple draft picks to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Desmond Bane.
Caldwell-Pope publicly declared his intent to win a title with the Orlando Magic, telling Dwight Howard on his podcast, “I want to bring one to Orlando; that was my reason for coming to this team.” Howard responded supportively after the trade, encouraging him to chase a ring in Memphis.
KCP you said you wanted to bring one to Orlando we’ll go ahead and get you one in Memphis 🫡🔥
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) June 16, 2025
Despite signing a $ 66 million deal last offseason, Caldwell-Pope struggled to find rhythm. Now he will aim to reignite his career with the Grizzlies.
Also Read: REPORT: Orlando Magic Assembling Aggressive Trade Package To Land Major Win-Now Piece This Offseason
