Jaren Jackson Jr.’s Honest Take on Desmond Bane’s Shocking Trade to Orlando Magic
Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. spilled the beans on his reaction to Desmond Bane’s trade to the Orlando Magic, and it might surprise you.
In a candid interview, Jackson Jr. revealed he wasn’t entirely caught off guard by the move.
The Business Side of Basketball
“I wasn’t too much surprised,” Jackson Jr. said, acknowledging the harsh realities of the NBA. “When your brothers leave, you still feel the pain because you’re human. But ultimately, it’s a business, and we’re grown.”
This mindset reflects the league’s transactional nature, where loyalty often takes a backseat to success.
A New Chapter for the Grizzlies
The trade marked the end of an era for the Grizzlies, who once saw Bane, Jackson Jr., and Ja Morant as the foundation for a championship contender. Now, with Bane in Orlando, Jackson Jr. is embracing a more prominent leadership role, determined to lead the team to new heights ¹ ².
What’s Next for Jaren Jackson Jr.?
With a five-year, $240 million extension in his pocket, Jackson Jr. is focused on the future. “You’re going to get closer to your prime, and things are going to change for you,” he said. “I feel like this is a good starting point for a whole new journey.”
As the Grizzlies embark on this new chapter, Jackson Jr.’s leadership will be crucial in shaping the team’s identity .
The Memphis Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, but NBC News’ Nadkarni said he wasn’t “surprised” by it.
Bane was transferred by the Grizzlies to the Magic on June 15 for Cole Anthony, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, four unprotected first-round picks, and one first-round pick.
The Grizzlies were eliminated in four games by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 playoffs’ first round. Jaren Jackson Jr. stated, “I wasn’t too much surprised” on the deal including Desmond Bane. Just because you’re human doesn’t mean you won’t hurt when your brothers depart.
However, it’s still just a business. Finally, we’ve matured. Things are about to alter for you as you approach your prime.
I think this is a solid place to begin a fresh adventure with goods. With the determined spirit of a pioneer, I intend to lead my people to the promised land this year.
Jackson Jr. extended his contract with the Grizzlies this offseason for five years and $205 million. Memphis’ franchise players still include Jarvis Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant. “Getting back to where you started would not be a goal,” Jackson Jr. stated. “Just keep moving forward and improving each day; that’s what we did previously to reach where you are referring.”
Between Jackson Jr. and Morant, the Grizzlies have only managed to win a single playoff series. In the 2022 playoffs, they advanced past the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round. During the 2017–18 season, Jackson Jr. saw action in 74 games with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Under his 78.1% free-throw shooting percentage, he averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 boards, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.5 blocks a game. His field goal percentage was 48.8%. The former Michigan State standout was named to both the All-Star and All-Defensive teams for the third time.
The Grizzlies selected Jackson Jr. with the fourth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. Jackson Jr., who won the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year Award, has career averages of 18.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.9 blocks.
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