The race for the Eastern Conference for the 2025-26 season is beginning to make moves in an effort to take down the Indiana Pacers in the coming season. The Philadelphia 76ers will be in the mix as they hope for improved health on their side, but a rival team made a big move on Sunday morning.
The Orlando Magic acquired Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies in a move that sent Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks, and a pick swap. Bane averaged 19.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists along with 1.2 steals in the 2024-25 season. He also shot 39.2% from deep on 6.1 attempts per game.
Bane will now slide in next to All-Star Paolo Banchero as well as borderline All-Star Franz Wagner in an effort to make the Magic legitimate contenders in the East. The Sixers will have to prepare for them as well as others in the East.
The Sixers will certainly be contenders in the East as long as they’re healthy. A trio of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey makes them a strong team, but Philadelphia needs to hope those three can remain on the floor to lead this team to contention.
