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Ex-Magic $39 Million Fan Favorite in Danger of Being Traded for Second Time in Month

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sahil Goswami | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 3:10 PM ET

The NBA free agency frenzy is officially in full swing, and one of the names unexpectedly in the spotlight is Cole Anthony. Just weeks after being traded from the Orlando Magic to the Memphis Grizzlies, the 25-year-old guard might be on the move again and fast.

Anthony, a fan favorite during his time in Orlando, was part of the blockbuster trade that sent Desmond Bane to the Magic. In return, Memphis received Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks and a pick swap.

It was a bold reset move for the Grizzlies, aiming to build around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. But now, with a crowded backcourt that includes Morant and Scottie Pippen Jr., Memphis is trying to flip Anthony before his new jersey even gets sweaty.

“Memphis spent the weekend actively trying to shed the contract of newly acquired Cole Anthony,” according to Marc Stein on Substack.

The front office is looking for a team willing to absorb his $13.1 million cap hit for the 2025-26 season. His career earnings currently sit at $28.8 million, according to the latest data.

Brandon Clarke, Cole Anthony, and John Konchar are making a total of 34 million dollars this season.

Not to mention the 10+ million you will probably have to pay Santi Aldama to keep him.

44+ million wrapped up in those players. They either need to produce or they have to go. pic.twitter.com/spR1JqQkxC
— Coach Von. (@ohokvontae) June 28, 2025

The timing is crucial – the Grizzlies are maneuvering to sign or extend key players like Santi Aldama, while also keeping an eye on free agents like Ty Jerome.

With Brooklyn holding cap space and reportedly eyeing Aldama, Memphis may need to clear Anthony’s salary quickly to stay in control of their roster plans.

Not even NBA Draft night and we've already seen...

Desmond Bane traded to Magic
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to Grizzlies
Cole Anthony traded to the Grizzlies
Kevin Durant traded to Rockets
Jalen Green traded to Suns
Dillon Brooks traded to Suns
Jrue Holiday… pic.twitter.com/hnMlVPORpH
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 24, 2025

Once seen as a key young piece for Orlando, Anthony now risks becoming trade bait yet again. From fan favorite to roster casualty, the former No. 15 pick’s NBA summer just got a lot more complicated.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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