The Memphis Grizzlies find themselves at a crossroads in the current NBA season as their dynamic point guard, Ja Morant, remains suspended until next week. The team’s early struggles (6-16 record) without Morant have left them languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.
In the absence of their star player, the Grizzlies have faced adversity, but the impending return of Morant offers a glimmer of hope. To catapult themselves into contention upon Morant’s return, the Grizzlies might contemplate a blockbuster trade that could reshape the team’s dynamics and elevate them to true title contention.
The Grizzlies Get A Dominant Center To The Lineup
Memphis Grizzlies receive: Deandre Ayton
Portland Trail Blazers receive: Luke Kennard, Brandon Clarke, Ziaire Williams, 2024 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick, 2029 second-round pick
In a speculative turn of events, the Memphis Grizzlies are contemplating a transformative move to enhance their frontcourt, with the centerpiece being the acquisition of Deandre Ayton from the Portland Trail Blazers. In this scenario, the proposed trade package includes Luke Kennard, Brandon Clarke, Ziaire Williams, a 2024 first-round pick, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2029 second-round pick heading to Portland.
Deandre Ayton arrived in Portland through a summer trade involving Damian Lillard moving to the Milwaukee Bucks. Ayton’s impressive averages of 12.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game make him a coveted asset for Memphis as they seek to solidify their position in the stacked Western Conference.
The departure of Luke Kennard, who currently contributes 8.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, signifies a strategic shift for the Grizzlies. As Memphis navigates this hypothetical trade scenario, the return of Brandon Clarke from an early-season injury adds an element of anticipation, offering the team added depth and versatility in the frontcourt for the Blazers in the deal.
Ziaire Williams, with current averages of 8.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, becomes part of the package sent to Portland. The inclusion of future draft picks, including a 2024 first-round pick, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2029 second-round pick, underscores Memphis’s commitment to securing a cornerstone player for the long term.
From the Grizzlies’ perspective, the potential acquisition of Ayton addresses a critical need for a dominant center, especially in the absence of Steven Adams, who is sidelined for the entire season due to injury. Ayton’s rim protection, scoring ability in the paint, and proficiency on the boards align with Memphis’s aspirations to contend in the Western Conference for a long time in the next years.
As Memphis explores this hypothetical trade, careful consideration must be given to maintaining team chemistry and ensuring a seamless integration of Ayton into the existing system. The coaching staff’s role becomes paramount in maximizing Ayton’s impact and fostering a cohesive environment as the Grizzlies envision a future where a stacked roster positions them as serious contenders in the NBA.
Memphis Could Form An Impressive Starting Five
In a hypothetical scenario where the Memphis Grizzlies secure Deandre Ayton, their starting lineup could feature Ja Morant, Marcus Smart, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr, and Ayton, with Derrick Rose as the dynamic sixth man.
Ja Morant posted an impressive 26.2 points, 8.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game in the 2022/23 season, as he stands as the team’s dynamic playmaker. His scoring prowess and adept playmaking set the tone for the Grizzlies’ offensive strategy.
Marcus Smart was recently traded from the Celtics, and despite a modest 12.5 points per game, Smart’s real impact lies in his tenacious defense and facilitation skills, averaging 5.0 assists and 2.5 rebounds. His defensive prowess allows Morant the freedom to focus on orchestrating the offense when he comes back in the next few days.
Desmond Bane has emerged as a potent scoring threat with 24.6 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. His scoring efficiency and playmaking skills make him a versatile wing player, providing valuable spacing for the team as a solid wing defender for the Grizzlies’ grit and grind philosophy.
Jaren Jackson Jr. brings versatility with 19.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. His ability to score both inside and outside, combined with shot-blocking prowess, adds a new dimension to the Grizzlies’ offense as he is still the reigning Defensive Player Of The Year, but needs to resolve his offensive game to be a complete two-way player.
Deandre Ayton, with 12.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, serves as the anchor in the paint. His rebounding and shot-blocking abilities address a significant need for the Grizzlies, enhancing the team’s overall dynamics as an upgrade of Steven Adams, being a better offensive threat and a young and athletic paint protector with more upside than what he’s shown lately.
Derrick Rose provides an instant offensive spark off the bench with 8.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game this season. His dynamic style of play ensures that the team maintains offensive firepower when the starters are resting.
The envisioned starting five, coupled with Rose as the sixth man, presents a well-rounded combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive capabilities. Morant’s playmaking sets up Bane and Smart for open looks, while Ayton and Jackson provide a formidable frontcourt presence. Rose’s scoring punch off the bench ensures that there is minimal drop-off when the starters rest.
Morant And Ayton Might Be A Championship Duo
In the realm of championship aspirations, the potential pairing of Ja Morant and Deandre Ayton for the Memphis Grizzlies raises intriguing possibilities, fueled by their individual prowess and the synergy they could develop on the court.
Highlighting Morant’s remarkable performance last season, where he ranked among the Top 3 in Points Per Possession (PPP) within the Pick and Roll as a ball handler for players under 25, emphasizes his exceptional abilities in orchestrating plays. On the other end of the spectrum, Ayton, especially leading up to the All-Star Break, showcased his dominance in PPP as a roller in the Pick and Roll, capitalizing on the adept feeding from Chris Paul in Phoenix.
The absence of Steven Adams could open up a seamless role for Ayton as an effective roller or lob threat, particularly if Jaren Jackson Jr. develops a consistent three-point shot. Ayton’s ability to navigate the rim and finish plays could flourish in an environment where defenses are stretched thin, with Jackson’s shooting deterring opponents from collapsing into the paint.
Moreover, Ayton’s potential for individual offensive development could be unleashed in Memphis. Without the constellation of superstars he played alongside in Phoenix, where he shared the stage with Devin Booker and Chris Paul, Ayton could become a focal point for generating his points. The Grizzlies, not laden with multiple superstars, may offer Ayton the opportunity to explore and expand his offensive repertoire.
It’s worth noting that Ayton, while showing flashes of brilliance, hasn’t entirely reached the anticipated heights in Phoenix, where expectations were sky-high. In Portland, the reconstruction of the team is centered around different perimeter pieces rather than Ayton being the franchise player. This shift could position Ayton to take on a more prominent role and thrive as a centerpiece in Memphis, potentially unlocking his full potential as a dominant force in the league.
In essence, the Morant-Ayton tandem holds the promise of a dynamic partnership that could propel the Memphis Grizzlies into championship contention. The combination of Morant’s playmaking brilliance and Ayton’s versatile skills could create a formidable duo, especially if Ayton finds the space to assert himself as a key offensive force within the Grizzlies’ system.
Would The Grizzlies Be Able To Reach The NBA Finals Soon?
The young and dynamic core of the Memphis Grizzlies has been on a steady trajectory of improvement, evolving into serious contenders in recent seasons. The addition of Deandre Ayton to this burgeoning roster raises the question: Could this potential team propel the Grizzlies to an NBA Finals victory in the near future?
The Grizzlies, led by the electrifying play of Ja Morant and complemented by talents like Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., have consistently defied expectations and showcased remarkable growth. Their tenacity and ability to compete at a high level have positioned them as perennial playoff contenders, making deep runs and garnering attention as a team on the rise.
With the hypothetical inclusion of Deandre Ayton, the Grizzlies address a significant need for a dominant presence in the paint. Ayton’s rebounding prowess, rim protection, and scoring efficiency add a crucial dimension to the team. The potential starting lineup, featuring Morant’s playmaking, Bane’s scoring, Jackson’s versatility, and Ayton’s interior dominance, forms a well-balanced unit that could compete with the best in the league.
To evaluate the likelihood of reaching the NBA Finals, factors such as team chemistry, player development, and competition in the Western Conference come into play. The synergy between Morant and Ayton, supported by the burgeoning talents around them, could create a formidable force. The Grizzlies’ ability to navigate the challenges posed by other elite teams, adapt to playoff environments, and make strategic adjustments will be critical in determining their success.
While the NBA landscape is dynamic and unpredictable, the Grizzlies’ trajectory suggests that they are on a path to contention. However, the road to the Finals is fraught with challenges, including formidable opponents, injuries, and the ever-evolving nature of the league. The Grizzlies’ potential success will hinge on their ability to maintain their upward trajectory and capitalize on the talent they’ve assembled.
