Desmond Bane: A ‘What If’ for the Boston Celtics?
The Boston Celtics did initially draft Desmond Bane before his name became synonymous with the Orlando Magic’s ambitious trade strategy. As his profile continues to rise, particularly during the NBA Play-in Tournament against the Charlotte Hornets, this isn’t merely a retrospective on Orlando’s significant June 2025 acquisition of one of the league’s premier two-way guards. It’s a legitimate contemplation of what could have been for the Celtics.
The Draft Night Trade
Boston originally selected Bane with the No. 30 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, but his rights were quickly moved in a three-team deal. Orlando dramatically altered Bane’s trajectory. The Magic officially acquired Bane from Memphis in June 2025, parting with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks, and a pick swap. This wasn’t a trade for a marginal improvement; it signaled a clear sense of urgency within the Eastern Conference.
NBA.com’s official 2020 draft results confirm the Celtics’ initial selection of Bane. However, the league’s draft trade tracker reveals his ultimate destination: Memphis received Bane and Mario Hezonja, Portland acquired Enes Kanter, and Boston received two future second-round picks from the Trail Blazers. In essence, Bane could have very well been a Celtic. This isn’t speculation; it’s a matter of documented draft-night history.
Why Orlando Valued Bane
Many teams, including the Celtics, underestimated Bane’s potential, leading to his relatively low draft position. Bane himself has explained why Orlando was a logical fit. Following the trade, Bane stated that the team’s culture aligned with his playing style. “That’s my DNA,” Bane said. “I’m a gritty guy. That’s how I’ve made it to this point. You look up and down the roster and we all have similar makeups.”
Orlando didn’t just acquire a shooter; they believed Bane complemented their existing roster, temperament, and long-term timeline. This belief is reflected in the organization’s public statements. After a February 2026 victory over the Clippers, Magic coach Jamahl Mosley lauded Bane, stating, “You cannot say enough about Desmond Bane. He is just a flat-out winner.”
A Significant Investment
The Magic were willing to pay a hefty price for Bane, convinced he could elevate the offense around stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner while maintaining the team’s competitive edge. Reuters highlighted that Orlando surrendered four unprotected first-round picks and a pick swap, underscoring their aggressive pursuit.
For Celtics fans, this history makes the initial draft-night decision feel more impactful. In 2020, Bane was simply the No. 30 pick traded for future second-rounders. Now, he’s a proven NBA scorer, a skilled floor spacer, and a player Orlando deemed worthy of a blockbuster trade. While not every draft miss warrants regret, this one certainly invites reflection.
Boston once possessed the pick that became Desmond Bane. Orlando now holds the player. And because the Magic recognize his value as a game-changer, the Celtics’ “what if” scenario extends beyond the past. NBA.com provides further insights into player profiles and team standings.
