Desmond Benn proved on Wednesday why he’s worth a trade to the Memphis Grizzlies. The new Orlando Magic sharpshooter stifled James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers from deep threes, ending a rally in the process.
Bane executed this clutch catch-and-shoot dagger that ended the Cavs’ late run. He threw the ball over Keon Ellis to put Orlando ahead by five before securing the 128–122 win.
Desmond Bain in clutch 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Pyv9efi8Cs
– NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) 12 March 2026
Even more adventurous was Ben’s Basket time. Cleveland could not challenge the Magic’s poor passing, which Harden even tried to dispute. Harden is also heard talking to the referee to explain his case.
“on my life!”
James Harden to the referee😭😭 pic.twitter.com/GwDaWc4c25
– Sports Center (@SportsCenter) 12 March 2026
Still, Ben showed the magic that made him worth a deal.
Desmond Bain looking at the Magic trade that led to Wednesday’s moment
Cole Anthony and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope were part of the blockbuster summer deal. But there were more than just giants there.
Four unprotected first round picks came with the Bain deal. Orlando still landed one of the league’s top perimeter shooters, which kept the Magic out of last season’s playoffs.
The 27-year-old is proving his shooting ability, averaging 20.4 points per game, including shooting 38.7% from long range. He especially lit up Cleveland for 35 points on 12 of 19 field goal shooting.
Bane has now added his 12th 30-point game of the season in his arrival to Orlando. His current best is 37 which he dropped over the Chicago Bulls (in a 125–120 win on December 1) and the Detroit Pistons (in a 112–109 road win on November 28).
Ben’s shooting has ignited a five-game winning streak for a Magic team seeking a return to the postseason. And maybe the Cavs-Magic will be the No. 4 and No. 5 pairing in the Eastern Conference.
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