3 trades Grizzlies can make to survive Ja Morant suspension

1. Grizzlies get Bagley and take on the Killian Hayes project

Now, if you’re a Grizzlies fan, I understand why you might be hesitant. But, hey, take a moment and let this Pistons fan convince you why this is a great trade for both teams.

Marvin Bagley is a big man who can score inside, catch lobs, and lengthen the floor with his shooting. Having a big man like this on a given team, particularly a contender, is practically a requisite in today’s NBA.

With Brandon Clarke out until the middle of next season, Memphis needs some paint assurance. Bagley could provide that.

As for the other name-brand addition, Killian Hayes has the tools to be great. Despite some daunting days with Detroit this past season, Hayes notched back-to-back career highs in April, following a 28-point game with a 26-point game.

His 6-foot-5 frame would give the Grizzlies more height and length defensively, especially compared to Tyus Jones’ smaller stature of just 6-foot-2. At the end of the day, Memphis adds to their depth and Detroit welcomes Luke Kennard back with open arms.

Ja’s suspension forces Grizzlies to re-calibrate

Ja’s suspension will force the Grizzlies to look at their depth. Jaren Jackson’s large contract gives the Grizzlies limited cap space flexibility, which is the price you pay for having last season’s Defensive Player of the Year. Without a doubt, things are going to look different in Memphis next season.

Some things to hang your hat on if you’re a Memphis fan: The Grizzlies have the 25th pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. They have a sure thing in Tyus Jones. If you can get Steven Adams back on the court, he’ll share the defensive load with Jaren. Dylan Brooks is guaranteed to leave. In short, it will be exciting to see how Memphis manages this opportunity to revamp its roster. It goes without saying, the Grizzlies have quite the offseason ahead of them.