After entering the postseason through their Play-In Tournament win over the Dallas Mavericks, hopes were high in Memphis for a deep playoff run. But those dreams were quickly crushed as the Grizzlies were swept 4-0 in the first round by the Oklahoma City Thunder.
While their playoff journey ended early, the Grizzlies are back in the headlines after making a major trade that has fans across the league buzzing.
Fans Are Stunned After Seeing the New Memphis-Orlando Trade
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Memphis has agreed to trade Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks and a first-round pick swap.
BREAKING: The Memphis Grizzlies are trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks and one first-round pick swap, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/UcQnmHbgZb
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 15, 2025
The size of the deal stunned fans and analysts alike, with many suggesting Memphis pulled off a massive heist.
Orlando gave up significant assets to land Bane, including Caldwell-Pope, who averaged just 8.7 points this season but brings elite perimeter defense. His ability to guard multiple positions could be crucial for the Grizzlies moving forward.
Still, most of the debate surrounds the draft compensation. Giving up four unprotected first-rounders and a swap left many fans scratching their heads.
“The Grizzlies just ROBBED them,” wrote one user.
The grizzlies just ROBBED them 😭
— Aidan LaPorta (@AidanLaPorta69) June 15, 2025
Bane averaged 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists this season and is clearly a talented guard. But many questioned whether his value matches the massive haul Orlando gave up.
“How is Desmond Bane worth that much?” asked another fan.
How is Desmond Bane worth that much
— Mike (@ChiSoxFanMike) June 15, 2025
The blockbuster also reopened comparisons to the Luka Dončić trade from earlier this year on February 2. In that deal, Dallas sent Dončić to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick. Many fans felt that package was light for a player of Dončić’s caliber.
“And you are telling me the Mavs couldn’t get one first-rounder thrown in for Luka?” one user commented.
And you are telling me the Mavs couldn’t get one first rounder thrown in for Luka? 🤡
— 🐻⬇️ Captain Caleb (@captaincaleb18) June 15, 2025
Orlando made the playoffs this year but lost in the First Round to the Boston Celtics. During that series, the Magic’s backcourt was exposed, showing their need for a reliable scorer. Bane addresses that directly and could transform their offense.
While fans were quick to focus on the pick haul, some analysts highlighted the potential upside for Orlando.
“The Desmond Bane fit is obviously incredible in Orlando. Between him and Suggs, that’s a dynamic backcourt, and I’ve liked the reps Bane has had in recent years as a decision-maker for the Grizz. But man, is that a lot of pick equity,” wrote one NBA analyst.
Only time will tell who won the trade. But for now, the consensus is clear. The Memphis Grizzlies may have just pulled off one of the most lopsided deals in recent NBA history.
