NBA rumors: 5 teams that could trade for Mike Conley

MEMPHIS, TN - MARCH 23: Mike Conley #11 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at FedExForum on March 23, 2019 in Memphis, Tennessee. Minnesota won 112-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

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3. Detroit Pistons

As trade talk surfaced around Conley at this past trade deadline, the Pistons were a rumored suitor. But the mix they had was working, and they edged into the playoffs as the No. 8 seed in the East. When it came down to it, Memphis’ asking price seems to have been a deal breaker.

And I gather #Pistons aren’t expecting to land Mike Conley at this juncture. “Asking too much,” source says. Bullock trade would appear to be that realization.
— VinceEllis (@AlabamaScribe56) February 6, 2019

Detroit’s first-round pick this year will now be just outside the lottery, and further down if they manage to pull off a playoff upset. But they have the contracts to send back to Memphis and match Conley’s money, and there are a couple of trade scenarios that work.

Pistons get: Conley
Grizzlies get: G Reggie Jackson, PF Jon Leuer

Pistons get: Conley
Grizzlies get: Jackson, Leuer, SG Luke Kennard

Getting three players instead of two for Conley would presumably be ideal for the Grizzlies. From Detroit’s end, adding Kennard would be a way to add a younger player and offset the idea of not having a 2019 lottery pick to include in a trade.

Conley is an upgrade over Jackson, which is why he was on the Pistons’ radar heading into the trade deadline. There should be a renewed opportunity to make a deal this summer, if Memphis isn’t set on getting an extra lottery pick for this year in a Conley deal.

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