The Orlando Magic seemed to be on a roll earlier this month with a seven-game winning streak, but they've hit a rough patch, winning only one of their last eight games. This slump raises questions about their playoff hopes in the fiercely competitive Eastern Conference Play-In race. Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies might be the ones to benefit if Orlando continues to struggle.
The Desmond Bane trade last summer was a game-changer. The Grizzlies acquired significant draft capital, signaling a shift from their young core.
Bane could have been a perfect fit for Orlando, potentially boosting them into contention. However, despite Bane's solid performance, Orlando's playoff chances are dwindling.
Yesterday's 139-87 loss to the Toronto Raptors was a tough blow for the Magic, dropping them to a 39-35 record. Their response to this setback will be crucial.
For the Grizzlies, this situation presents opportunities. The trade, which included Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony, was primarily about gaining draft flexibility.
Injuries have hampered the Grizzlies' plans to build around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., with Jackson Jr. being traded before the deadline. Morant's future in Memphis is uncertain, but the Grizzlies hold valuable draft picks, including a 2026 first-round pick swap with Orlando.
With Phoenix likely making the Play-In Tournament, the Magic's current position as the 8th seed in the East is precarious. They're 2.5 games behind the 6th seed Hawks and just half a game ahead of the Heat and Hornets. Grizzlies fans are rooting for Orlando to miss the playoffs, which would grant Memphis another lottery pick.
The Grizzlies have already made moves to bolster their young core, trading up to select Cedric Coward 11th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft. If Orlando misses the playoffs, Memphis could further enhance their roster with another lottery pick, alongside their own first-round pick and a promising second-rounder.
In essence, the Grizzlies are poised to elevate their talent level significantly in the offseason. While continued development from their young players is key, Orlando missing the playoffs would make the Desmond Bane trade even more advantageous for Memphis.