Los Angeles Lakers fans were expecting to see plenty of fireworks this offseason, but it is hard to say that anyone expected the fun to start in mid-June when the draft and free agency are still on the horizon.
In a move that could ultimately help the Lakers postseason hopes for the 2025-26 campaign, the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic have reportedly agreed to a trade that sends a former Lakers guard to Memphis along with a haul of first-round draft picks from Orlando.
In exchange, Memphis is sending a starter to the Eastern Conference, seemingly punting on their hopes of improving upon their standing from this past season.
Former Lakers Starter Traded to Memphis in Pre-Draft Blockbuster
According to Shams Charania of ESPN.com, the Grizzlies have agreed to send veteran wing 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.
This is quite the haul for the Lakers' Western Conference rival to receive for Bane. While he is undoubtedly a solid player and someone a playoff contender, such as Orlando, would benefit from having on their roster, giving up that much draft capital on top of a veteran guard with championship experience and a young guard who still has plenty of promise is a lot.
The Magic see an opportunity to take the next step in an Eastern Conference that looks much more open following the injury to Jayson Tatum. This is a big risk for them to take. Lakers fans have seen plenty of trades like this blow up in the face of the team shipping out unprotected draft picks, but one that Orlando's front office feels is necessary.
With Los Angeles expected to be quite active on the trade front this summer, this deal could be an indicator of what it will cost to do business across the league when attempting to acquire seasoned veterans.