The Memphis Grizzlies already shocked the NBA world once this offseason by moving on from franchise cornerstone Desmond Bane. Now, in an even bolder swing, they could shift the Western Conference power structure entirely by making a blockbuster move for former MVP Joel Embiid.
This hypothetical deal sends a massive haul to the Philadelphia 76ers, headlined by Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. and intriguing big man Zach Edey, in exchange for the dominant two-way center. The deal would also involve two first-round picks and other assets.
With Ja Morant returning from suspension and a need to retool quickly around his prime, this trade offers Memphis a rare opportunity to build a win-now core around one of the league’s most dynamic guards and most dominant bigs. For Philadelphia, it’s the type of forward-looking package President Daryl Morey would actually consider as the Embiid era nears its end. Let’s dive into how this could play out.
Proposed Trade Details
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Joel Embiid
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Jaren Jackson Jr., Zach Edey, John Konchar, 2028 first-round pick, 2030 first-round pick, 2027 second-round pick (ATL), 2028 second-round pick (SAC)
Memphis Grizzlies Add A Former MVP To Create A Dynamic Duo
Memphis enters this proposed deal riding momentum since they recently moved Desmond Bane in a mega-deal netting four first-round picks. Now, by flipping Jackson Jr, Edey, a role player, and four picks (including two first-rounders), the Grizzlies would not only land the 2023-24 NBA MVP but create one of the most promising duos in NBA history.
Embiid brings elite two-way impact: over 19 games, he’s averaged 23.8 PPG on 44.4% shooting and 8.2 RPG, production that doesn’t reflect his true impact as he posted 34.7 PPG and 11.0 RPG last season. Pairing Embiid with Ja Morant would reshape the Western Conference.
Morant, averaging 23.2 PPG, 7.3 APG, and 4.1 RPG, adds dynamic drive-and-kick offense, while Embiid clogs the paint and commands double teams. Their styles could mesh: Embiid’s presence inside opens space for Morant’s perimeter genius, and Morant’s speed compensates for Joel’s slower pace.
It’s a true inside-outside combo that could vault Memphis into serious title contention. Of course, this deal hinges on health: Embiid has battled meniscus and other knee issues, missing 61 games this season. But if he stays on the court, Memphis gets an MVP-level centerpiece and extra draft ammo to balance their asset base and extend their championship window.
Philadelphia 76ers Dump Embiid’s Contract While Getting Perfect Co-Star For Tyrese Maxey
Philadelphia is at a crossroads after a disappointing 24-58 season, and President Daryl Morey’s facing pressure to retool around Tyrese Maxey (former All-Star and Most Improved Player). Maxey is the clear offensive engine; he averaged 26.3 PPG, 6.1 APG, 3.3 RPG in 2024‑25 but needs consistent two-way support to capitalize on his prime years. Jaren Jackson Jr., emerging as a top-tier defensive anchor with stretch‑big skill, fits that ceiling as Maxey’s co-star.
JJJ brings elite rim protection: he secured the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year award and posted 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. As a former first-round pick with room to grow and on a young, controllable contract, Jackson complements Maxey beautifully.
He offers offense, stretches the floor, and improves defensive versatility. For Philadelphia, swapping Embiid’s massive salary and injury risk for a younger, healthier duo signals a strategic reset and sustained rebuilding process. Konchar isn’t a star, but he shot 37.1% from three this past season and will make $6,165,000 and $6,165,000 over the next two seasons, making him a perfect player to package in another trade.
From a cap perspective, shipping Embiid and his $207–213M+ contract in exchange for JJJ, Zach Edey, and Konchar gives Philly flexibility. The two first-round picks (and two second-rounders) will help the complete re-tooling, especially as the Sixers look likely to move on from Paul George as well.
They’d shed years of financial burden and gain roster breathing room to pursue additional wing help or veteran shooters. Moreover, Jackson’s evolving skill set addresses Philadelphia’s lackluster defense (they ranked 26th in defensive rating, allowing 115.8 PPG this season) while amplifying Maxey’s offensive efficiency.
A Crazy Trade Idea That Might Actually Work Out
This deal works out in this way: Memphis seizing its chance to become a true contender, and Philadelphia executing a ground-up rebuild after a calamitous season. Memphis, armed with Ja Morant’s explosive scoring and a stockpile of first-round picks gained from the Bane trade, would instantly transform its ceiling by adding 2022–23 MVP Joel Embiid, an All‑NBA talent when healthy.
If Memphis can manage Embiid’s ongoing knee concerns, those two dynastic anchors, inside and out, could rival the league’s elite, backed by a roster both deep and flexible. Conversely, Philadelphia would free itself from an injury-plagued future, Embiid missed almost the entire season and underwent another arthroscopic procedure this spring, and reset around Tyrese Maxey, a 26-year-old rising All-Star who posted 26 PPG and 6 APG this past season.
In exchange, they’d acquire Jaren Jackson Jr., a 25-year-old Defensive Player of the Year candidate, who’s no doubt a two-way cornerstone, alongside plenty of flexibility to chase complementary shooters. This crazy trade just might work.
