In a stunning move that has shaken up the NBA landscape even before the official start of the offseason, Desmond Bane has been traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Orlando Magic. The trade package is one of the biggest in recent memory, with Memphis receiving guard Cole Anthony, veteran sharpshooter Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and a staggering four first-round draft picks in exchange for Bane. While this blockbuster deal has fans buzzing, it also has serious implications for the sports card market—particularly for collectors of Bane and Anthony’s rookie cards.
A New Beginning in Orlando
Desmond Bane, known for his grit, perimeter shooting, and defensive prowess, has steadily emerged as one of the most consistent two-way guards in the league. Averaging 19 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists during the 2024–25 season, Bane played an integral role in the Grizzlies’ offensive schemes alongside Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. Despite the trio’s talent, Memphis faced a disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Boston Celtics.
Now with the Orlando Magic, Bane is poised to form a new “Big Three” alongside 2022 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero and rising star Jalen Suggs. The Magic, already showing signs of emerging as an Eastern Conference powerhouse, now gain a proven scorer and leader who can stretch the floor and lock down opposing guards. The addition of Bane could elevate the Magic from playoff hopefuls to legitimate title contenders.
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 Memphis Rebuild Reloads
On the flip side, Memphis gains a talented young guard in Cole Anthony, who averaged 13.2 points and 4.5 assists off the bench for the Magic last season. Known for his energy, speed, and clutch shooting, Anthony has often been the spark Orlando needed in tight situations. Now he will have the opportunity to thrive in a revamped Grizzlies backcourt, playing alongside Ja Morant and under the mentorship of a strong coaching staff.
The Grizzlies also acquire Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a seasoned veteran with championship experience and defensive grit, further adding depth and leadership to a team that aims to bounce back strong next season. Perhaps most importantly, the four first-round picks included in the deal give Memphis valuable assets to either develop or trade in future pursuits of star talent.
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Card Market Reaction: A Sudden Spike
As is often the case with high-profile trades, the sports card market reacted immediately to the news. Desmond Bane’s rookie cards saw a noticeable uptick in value. On the day of the trade, a PSA 10 2020 Panini Prizm Silver rookie card sold for $80, a sharp increase from the $56 price point it fetched just a month earlier. The excitement surrounding his move to a playoff-ready team has collectors and investors betting on a breakout season—and potential award nominations.
Meanwhile, Cole Anthony’s rookie card values also saw minor upward movement. Two copies of his PSA 10 Silver Prizm RC were sold for $29 and $36 on the day of the trade. While not a dramatic spike like Bane’s, the shift reflects renewed interest and optimism surrounding Anthony’s future in Memphis.
Investment Outlook for Collectors
For collectors and investors, both players now present intriguing opportunities. Bane’s move to Orlando could result in greater media exposure, higher scoring averages, and possibly a deep playoff run—all of which tend to drive card prices higher. His relatively affordable rookie cards may no longer stay that way if he evolves into the offensive leader many believe he can be.
Cole Anthony also becomes a name to watch. While his role in Orlando was sometimes inconsistent due to the depth of the roster, he now has a chance to take on a bigger load in Memphis, especially if injuries or trades shift the backcourt dynamics. If Anthony flourishes in a more prominent role, his cards could see a significant boost.
Long-Term Implications
The Desmond Bane-Cole Anthony swap is a win-win for both franchises—Orlando pushes into contender territory, while Memphis gears up for sustained competitiveness. But for sports card collectors, this is also a moment to reassess portfolios and potentially capitalize on rising stars whose best days might just be ahead.
As the NBA continues to be a league driven by player movement and big personalities, savvy collectors know that timing is everything. With both Bane and Anthony landing in systems that suit their styles and offer upward mobility, now may be the perfect time to invest in these rising stars before the market fully catches up.
