The 2018 30-team NBA mega-trade that solves nothing and makes everyone mad
By Ian Levy
Memphis Grizzlies
Sending out: JaMychal Green (IND), Brandan Wright (PHI), 2018 second-round pick (LAL)
Bringing in: Jordan Clarkson (LAL)
The Memphis Grizzlies are struggling through a lost season — Marc Gasol’s numbers are down, Mike Conley is out for the year with injury and the team is sliding towards a top lottery pick. Interestingly, the Grizzlies are positioned to add a big piece in the draft without having to send out one of their top picks.
The Grizzlies have been desperate over the past few years to get a second perimeter player who can both space the floor and create their own shot off the dribble. Tyreke Evans has been the guy this year but he’s likely to be moved at the deadline and wouldn’t be back next year anyway.
Clarkson is a talented offensive player who would be great as a complement to Conley. He would be the most versatile offensive wing they’ve had in quite some time. The size of his contract puts the Grizzlies in a tight spot but he’s worth the risk. Add someone like Marvin Bagley from this year’s draft with Clarkson could put the Grizzlies right back in the mix in the Western Conference.