The Memphis Grizzlies should be looking into trades this offseason. They were one of the biggest surprises in the NBA this year as they exceeded all expectations and essentially were always must-watch TV. Their season, however, fell short in the Western Conference semi-finals to the Golden State Warriors, although it was largely a match-up of youth versus experience. In addition, it’s important to mention that Ja Morant suffered an injury in the series.
Memphis Grizzlies: Two Trades to Consider
Mini Blockbuster
Memphis Grizzlies receive Harrison Barnes and Richaun Holmes.
Sacramento Kings receive Dillon Brooks and Steven Adams.
This is a pretty straightforward trade for both sides, but it also makes sense for both.
First off, Memphis brings in a veteran in Barnes who can play both forward positions. He can easily average 16-20 points per game in the Grizzlies’ offense, and his leadership will prove to be vital. Although his salary is hefty, it comes off the books after this next season.
Holmes is another good get. Adams was played off the court versus the Warriors, whereas Holmes’ skill set is a little different. Adams can clog the paint and rebound, but Holmes is very athletic and can become a stellar pick-and-roll option alongside Morant. He’s also signed on a pretty team-friendly deal for the next few seasons.
Sacramento gets a younger scoring option in Brooks. He can grow alongside Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox. Holmes was benched in Sacramento after the arrival of Sabonis. The same may happen with Adams. With that being said, Adams will then be a phenomenal option off the bench to anchor the defense and clean up the boards as Sabonis is also an excellent rebounder. Adams will become a free agent far sooner than Holmes as well, allowing the Kings to clear up cap space quicker.
Helping Both Sides
Memphis Grizzlies receive Joe Harris and Bruce Brown (sign-and-trade).
Brooklyn Nets receive Dillon Brooks and Steven Adams.
As mentioned earlier, Adams was in and out of the Grizzlies rotation in the playoffs. He may be expendable this offseason. Harris is an immediate contributor as he’ll be healthy come next season. At times he looks like the best shooter in the league behind Stephen Curry, so having him on the same team as a shooter like Desmond Bane will turn out to be great. Opposing defenses will have nightmares guarding the perimeter versus Memphis as the shooting would be a major asset, but also Morant would be attacking at will with fewer defenders focusing on him. Brown is also a great get. Kyle Anderson may be moving on as a free agent, and Brown showed a lot of flashes this past season. He’ll be an asset off the bench.
Brooklyn is looking everywhere for help after another disappointing season. Brooks is another experienced scorer to add to the rotation. He won’t be burdened with carrying a major load either. The future of Andre Drummond is also questionable as he hits free agency this offseason. Adams can come in and replace him as an elite rebounding big man.
