'I Was Shocked' -- Ja Morant Breaks Silence on Grizzlies' Desmond Bane Trade, Jaren Jackson Jr.'s $240,000,000 Extension

The Memphis Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and four first-round draft picks (2025, 2026, 2028, 2030).

Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant expressed shock upon learning of the trade, initially believing it was fake. He stated the move was best for both teams, believing Bane is the missing piece for the talented Orlando Magic and complements players like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

CBS Sports ranked the Bane acquisition as the No. 2 move of the offseason, highlighting him as the perfect scoring and shooting threat Orlando needed, especially for kick-outs when Banchero and Wagner drive.

While losing Bane, the Grizzlies secured a five-year maximum contract extension worth approximately $240 million (with a 2029-30 player option) for star player Jaren Jackson Jr. Morant strongly endorsed the extension, calling Jackson Jr. the heart of Memphis and the team, though he admitted he didn't understand the salary cap details and thought Jackson deserved even more.

Morant also commented on the incoming players. He emphasized the importance of veteran presence Caldwell-Pope brings, particularly for his defensive prowess and mentorship value for the Grizzlies' young players. He noted that playing next to a playmaker like himself could help Caldwell-Pope return to his previous shooting form after a dip last season. The team also bought out Cole Anthony's contract to create additional salary cap space.

Caldwell-Pope's potential role includes offering key leadership and possibly mentoring young player Jaylen Wells as Memphis develops its next generation of talent.