TITLE: Southeast Roundup: Bane’s Surge, Davis’ Anticipation, Gardner’s Fine, Heat Eye Giannis
SLUG: southeast-roundup-bane-davis-gardner-heat-giannis
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The Orlando Magic remain inconsistent at 30-26, seventh in the Eastern Conference, but the front office is getting exactly what it hoped for from Desmond Bane. Orlando surrendered four first-round picks to land the veteran wing last summer, and he is one of only two Magic players to appear in every game so far. After 34- and 36-point outings in Phoenix and Los Angeles over the weekend, Bane is averaging 20.1 points on .483/.388/.913 shooting, along with 4.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists.
“He reminds me of a lot of older guys in this league,” center Wendell Carter Jr. said. “He’s going to play his game no matter what … His continued elevation just shows he’s one of the best at his position.” Bane, 27, is signed through the 2028-29 season and is owed $126.5 million over the final three years of his deal.
Wizards waiting on Anthony Davis
New Wizards big man Anthony Davis has yet to debut while rehabbing a hand injury, but he told Monumental Sports Network he believes he and Trae Young can form a potent offensive tandem. Davis is also eager to work with rookie center Alex Sarr, calling their potential defense “insane” thanks to the French prospect’s versatility and rim protection.
Gardner fined after altercation
Less than a week after signing his first standard NBA contract, Miami Heat swingman Myron Gardner was docked $35,000 for bumping Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. during an incident that spilled into the crowd. Gardner said the contact was unintentional, and head coach Erik Spoelstra argued the league was “making a point,” noting Pippen pushed the scuffle into the stands and Gardner “didn’t really retaliate.”
Heat still monitoring Giannis
With Miami visiting Milwaukee on Tuesday, the Heat’s long-running interest in Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo remains on hold until the offseason. Miami will be able to put up to four first-round picks on the table this summer, but a renewed pursuit depends on Antetokounmpo’s future plans and whether Milwaukee receives a more attractive offer elsewhere.
Source: Hoops Rumors
