The first major trade of the 2025 NBA offseason doesn’t involve the Wizards directly. But it still affects them indirectly nevertheless.
The Orlando Magic had recently been considered a possible destination for Washington Wizards guard Jordan Poole. He’d reportedly connect well with members of the Magic, and he could fit as a potential backcourt focal point alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner . But with the Magic now acquiring Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies—a premier 3‑and‑D wing—their pursuit of Poole sharply diminishes.
Shams Charania of ESPN broke the news of the trade yesterday.
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
Bane fills the precise role Poole would have, meaning Orlando’s need for another ball‑dominant scorer has vanished. That removes a team that was a frequently speculated destination. Perhaps some other teams like the Detroit Pistons, Dallas Mavericks and others remain contenders, but Orlando’s move leaves fewer realistic landing spots for Poole.
For Washington, this is significant. With one fewer team chasing Poole, the competitive pressure to trade him softens a bit. But he will still be a player whom other teams would be interested in on draft night nevertheless.