One big question for every NBA team

Will the Grizzlies trade Marc Gasol?

The Grit-and-Grind era isn’t over in Memphis, but the sun is definitely setting on the brightest era in Grizzlies history. Zach Randolph is gone and Tony Allen might be on his way out of Memphis as well. As long as Conley and Gasol are part of the franchise though, they will channel the spirit of Grit-and-Grind and compete for the playoffs as long as they can.

The top teams in the West have improved though. Although the Grizzlies gave the Spurs a tough time in the playoffs last season, Memphis only won 43 games and their stars were mostly healthy. Their prospects for success in the brutal West next year aren’t particularly promising. With Chandler Parsons owed $72 million over the next three years (per Spotrac), their financial future is bleak right now.

If the team falters this season, will they consider trading Marc Gasol? Chris Mannix of the Vertical reported that Gasol trade buzz had begun in a column about Boston’s acquisition of Gordon Hayward. Parting ways with Gasol would be incredibly painful for the Grizzlies; he’s been such a critical part of the team for so long. The franchise’s options are somewhat limited by their cramped salary sheet though. Another important thing to note is that Boston owns Memphis’ 2019 first round pick. If they don’t have a realistic chance to make the playoffs by the time the trade deadline is approaching, dealing Gasol might be their best option to rebuild moving forward.