NBA Trade Deadline 2018: 5 deals that should have happened

4. Tyreke Evans to anywhere

The Grizzlies holding onto Tyreke Evans was one of the deadlines more surprising developments. They are on a team going nowhere in a hurry and getting some for Evans, who is on an expiring deal, makes sense. Even two second-round picks would have been something after their asking price of a first-round pick wasn’t met would have made sense. Assets matters and maybe Evans sticking will hurt the Grizzlies’ lottery odds if he keeps playing this well.

But there is also reason to critique the Celtics (and other teams interested in Evans) for not ponying up for Evans. Is acquiring him a game-changing move in the same way the Cavs’ moves were? No, but he’s a veteran who can handle the ball and score. The Celtics, the 76ers, Nuggets and other teams reportedly interested in Evans all can find room for a guy like that.
A lot of the culpability in Evans staying Memphis is with the Grizzlies holding firm on wanting a first-round pick. But maybe the team’s didn’t pony up for Evans deserve some heat, too.