For the past two seasons, the Orlando Magic have been knocking on the door. They played tough, defended like crazy and earned respect in the East — but always felt one piece away from being taken seriously. That missing piece might’ve just arrived. Desmond Bane’s addition this summer could completely shift Orlando’s ceiling. One of the league’s most efficient shooters and a sneaky playmaker, the guard is coming off a season in Memphis where he averaged 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists with 39.1% shooting from three. He gives the Magic what they badly needed: floor spacing, shot creation and someone who can keep defenses honest without the ball. The biggest beneficiary? Paolo Banchero. Last year, the All-Star forward had to do everything for this team. He drew constant double teams, had limited room to drive and often found himself working through clogged-paint scenarios. Still, he managed to put up 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. That’s without a true floor-spacer next to him.Read More
Magic could make the biggest jump in 2025-26
