

It didn’t take long for the NBA to deliver the first big trade of the summer. Amid the ongoing Finals, the Grizzlies and Magic agreed on a blockbuster deal that sent star guard Desmond Bane to Orlando. In return, Memphis received young ball handler Cole Anthony, two-time champ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, four first-round picks, and a first-round pick swap four years from now. Soon after, Bane arrived in his new home, instantly catching Kevin Durant’s attention.
Yes, the Orlando team shared glimpses of Desmond’s first moments at the Magic facility. With a smile on his face, the shooting guard soaked it all in. He said, “This is a little different than Memphis right here, for sure.” Of course, Bane began his career with the Grizzlies. Moreover, this is his first time changing teams in five years—naturally, a unique experience for him. He also appeared to have a brief meeting with Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley. The two dapped each other up to begin their new partnership.
The dap was so loud, it even got Durant chiming in. “They heard this dap in Memphis,” The Slim Reaper tweeted, sending a strong message about the trade.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
They heard this dap in Memphis https://t.co/HBS3i1Xw8y
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) June 17, 2025
Bane asked, “You good, Coach?”, making the man in the video likely Mosley, even though Mosley’s back was to the camera the whole time. If their chemistry is anything like that dap, Bane is poised for an impressive run in Orlando. Many questioned the number of first-round picks the Magic gave up to acquire Desmond. However, the move makes sense for both teams. Orlando landed a consistent 20+ point scorer who could be the perfect third option alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Plus, Bane is a solid playmaker, having averaged 5.3 assists this season. This move could bring them closer to their championship goal.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Meanwhile, Memphis improved its depth with Cole and KCP. They did so while also securing valuable assets to build for the future. As Desmond starts settling into his new home, Durant’s own future remains uncertain amid the swirling trade buzz.
Kevin Durant-Anthony Edwards reunion unlikely as ESPN insider shares latest trade update
On The Pat McAfee Show, ESPN veteran Shams Charania reported that the Timberwolves are among the three teams the Suns are focusing on in Durant trade talks. Many fans began hoping for a KD and Ant-Man reunion. Especially after the massive success they had together during the Paris Olympics. However, Shams later clarified that Minnesota is not among Durant’s preferred destinations.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What’s your perspective on:
Is Desmond Bane the missing piece for the Magic to finally make a playoff run?
Have an interesting take?
The veteran insider doubled down on that stance in his latest update. “I’m told the Phoenix Suns remain in active conversations around the league on a Kevin Durant deal. But their focus over the last several days has been on three teams. And that’s the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, and Minnesota Timberwolves. I’m told Durant has no desire to be in Minnesota with the Timberwolves.” Yes, it looks like the hope of Durant-Edwards reunion will not come to fruition this summer as the two-time champ seemingly has no intention to join the Timberwolves.
Shams also emphasized that KD’s $54.7 million salary for next season will play a major role in determining his next destination. Well, the Timberwolves are currently a second apron team. That means the trade restrictions will make it extremely difficult for them to acquire KD. Despite the Wolves’ clear interest, every other sign is hinting toward them failing to pull off the Durant trade. Do you think they can turn things around in their favor by luring the Suns with a last-minute offer they cannot refuse?
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Is Desmond Bane the missing piece for the Magic to finally make a playoff run?