The first deal for the NBA offseason has been agreed between the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies.
Orlando’s magic had to move to strengthen around Paolo Bancello and Franz Wagner, and they moved aggressively to bring in the Third Star.
Magic has given up four picks as part of the package to win Desmond Bain.
The price paid by Magic is currently a hot topic, with the Memphis Grizzlies earning the biggest return of the 26-year-old.
ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins believes Orlando Magic has acquired a top player for Desmond Bane.
However, the original player is unable to grab his head around the sudden price that the magic gave up to win him.
Speaking to Lord Trippin, Perkins said: “I’m everything. I’m accepting it all. If you’re Orlando’s magic, I think it’s pickup hell.
“And you think of the intervals Desmond Bane can provide, shooting rather than defensive responsibility, so he will fit the culture, but if he gives up on four unprotected picks, I would be awful.
“I don’t believe it. I don’t think they got that much for Jrue Holiday with the Boston Celtics. That’s a lot of picks.
“So Desmond Bain, look, he’s a great addition, especially with the Eastern Conference being open to the big side next year, and I’d like to praise Orlando Magic for all being right… that’s a better job.”
Orlando’s magic was paid for Desmond Bain. They had to make a move and took decisive action to land him before the other teams could make their move.
Bane is a two-way wing that posted 48.4% filming splits from the field, 39% and 89% free throws to 39% filming, slightly shy of the 50/40/90 benchmark.
- Orlando’s magic receives: Desmond Bain
- Memphis Grizzlies Received: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, 2025 Firstround Pick (ORL, #16), 2026 FirstRound Pick (PHX), 2028 FirstRound Pick (ORL), 2030 FirstRound Pick (ORL), 2029 FirstRound Pick-Swap.
Brian Windhorst explained that part of the cost was that Magic had to actually pay with the pick to offload Kentavius Caldwell Pope, who had spent a poor year on expensive contracts.
The Magic move talks about how they feel that the Eastern Conference is widespread next season, and their offensive moves put them in a strong position with a top six finish.