In a stunning NBA trade that has sent shockwaves through the league, Desmond Bane has officially joined the Orlando Magic, a move that sparked immediate scrutiny from sports analyst Stephen A. Smith. On “First Take,” Smith questioned whether the Magic overpaid by giving up four unprotected first-round picks for a player who, despite his impressive stats—averaging nearly 18 points per game and shooting 41% from three—has yet to earn an All-Star nod.

Bane wasted no time in responding to the criticism, dismissing Smith’s remarks with a grin, asserting, “No, I’ll just say no.” The 24-year-old shooting guard emphasized that it’s time for the Magic to win, hinting at the urgency and potential he sees in the team. “If we do what we’re supposed to do, those picks would have fallen in a place that… we have a lot of young talent here already,” he stated confidently.

After a whirlwind of emotions in the past 48 hours, including a vacation in Destin, Florida, Bane expressed his excitement about joining the Magic, a team he had on his radar even before the trade. “It’s a perfect fit,” he said, highlighting the roster’s talent, including stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Bane is ready to integrate into a young, dynamic squad that aims to make waves in the Eastern Conference.

As the excitement builds, the NBA community watches closely. Can Bane help elevate the Magic to new heights, or will the cost of the trade haunt them? With expectations soaring, all eyes are on Orlando as they prepare for a pivotal season ahead.