3 trades Grizzlies can make to survive Ja Morant suspension
By Kyle Delaney
2. OG Anunoby could be a great get for the Grizzlies
It’s arguable that the Grizzlies are one step away from serious championship contenders. With Dillon Brooks likely to relocate elsewhere this summer, an upgrade at the small forward spot is necessary. OG Anunoby could be the elite answer to that problem.
Not to mention, he’s been on their radar before.
Though Memphis seems adamant on their whole “under any circumstances” approach towards re-signing Dillon Brooks, the Grizzlies might need to think about signing and trading Dillon Brooks if they want to avoid parting ways with guys like Brandon Clarke, Steven Adams, or Tyus Jones. A sign-and-trade involving Brooks is the Grizzlies’ best shot at upgrading their roster.
The tricky part is matching Anunoby’s salary. According to hoopshype.com, If the Grizzlies can sign and trade Brooks to a three-year contract worth $36 million, and guarantee him a starting salary of $11.4 million (which is the same amount he made last season), then that would be enough to match Anunoby. Include Ziaire Williams, throw in a 2025 first-round pick, and that only sweetens the deal more.
With this trade, the Grizzlies and Raptors basically swap Second-Team All-NBA defenders. The Raptors acquire an intriguing prospect in Ziaire Williams. Dillon Brooks playing alongside Scottie Barnes and Pascal Sikam is enticing because an agitator might be what they’re missing.
With Anunoby, Memphis rounds out its starting unit and also receives a helpful boost on both ends of the floor. Anunoby wouldn’t only offer scoring support, he’d also be a big-time wing defender for the Grizzlies.
Anunoby averaged 16.8 points per game this season and had a true shooting percentage of 58.6 percent. With his defensive abilities, he’ll be able to pick up the slack while Morant is sidelined to begin the season.