The Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic each enter today with the same record of 3-5 on their early-season slate. While a rash of injuries and drama between Ja Morant and head coach Tuomas Iisalo has affected the Grizzlies during their three-game losing streak, the Orlando Magic's slow start has been surprising to many.
The first trade of the NBA offseason occurred when Memphis traded Desmond Bane to Orlando for four first-round picks, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Cole Anthony. Although the Grizzlies and Anthony mutually parted ways shortly afterward, it opened up cap space for them to extend Jaren Jackson Jr.