Memphis Grizzlies: Tyreke Evans to Philly?
It’s trade season! The Memphis Grizzlies have placed Tyreke Evans on the block, and a potential suitor has emerged. Could Evans be on the move?
Blake Griffin’s trade has started the domino effect. Nikola Mirotic was almost on the move yesterday, and Tyreke Evans could be next. The New York Times’ Marc Stein reported that Tyreke Evans could be on the move to the Philadelphia 76ers:
The Sixers have expressed trade interest in Tyreke Evans, according to league sources, but Memphis continues to seek a first-round pick in an Evans deal and Philly is naturally reluctant to surrender it
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) January 31, 2018
In regards to Evans’ trades, the Grizzlies’ asking price has been a first-round pick, hoping some desperate playoff contender considers him for a rental.
As I discussed in my last Evans column, the Sixers might be the best landing spot for him. They need playmaking and scoring off the bench, as their best perimeter player off the bench is … Jerryd Bayless.
The Sixers are eyeing their first playoff appearance since the 2011-12 season. With the acquisition of Evans, they could even be potential sleepers to reach the second-round.
With that being said, is he worth the first-round pick?
The Sixers do have the Lakers’ pick, if it falls either first or between sixth and 30th. Therefore, giving up their own first-round pick might not be a bad idea. It’s projected to be the 16th pick — which could be too much of an asking price for Evans. However, it probably wouldn’t stay there if they pulled off a trade.
If it’s not a first-round pick, Philadelphia may dangle a player and a second-round pick. They have an influx of picks and young players and could be willing to part ways with some to acquire a player like Evans.
Next: The Grizzlies should've traded Evans yesterday
Keep an eye out on all Tyreke Evans rumors over the next week. The trade deadline is eight days away, and he’ll surely be on the move.
Evans is averaging 19.5 points on a career-high 39.2 percent from downtown, five rebounds and five assists. In addition, he’s scoring 18.2 points a game as a reserve — his role wherever he ends up.
Will Tyreke Evans join Philly and trust the process? Could the Grizzlies land an additional first-round pick?