What we learned about the Memphis Grizzlies from the NBA Trade Deadline

Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
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Memphis Grizzlies
Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Even though it was a quiet day for the Memphis Grizzlies, it was one of the more interesting free agency deadlines that occurred right before the 3pm trade deadline this Thursday afternoon.

This deadline saw Kyle Lowry ultimately staying with Toronto after what was thought to be his last game as a Raptor on March 25. This was also a day that also saw Aaron Gordon going to Denver, George Hill off to Philly and Lou Williams back to Atlanta, where he was tenured for the franchise from 2012 to 2014.

But what did this mean for other teams that missed out, or even backed out of the free agency trade frenzy that occured today?

A team like the Memphis Grizzlies, as many sources have said, were in trade talks regarding the consideration to shop their backup center in Gorgui Dieng, the 31-year old, 6’11” center who hasn’t been in the rotation as much in recent this season.

It was a move bound to happen… but why didn’t it? Well, let’s start by breaking down why the Grizzlies stayed neutral in this years trade deadline, keeping players like Dieng out of trade talks, as well as landing any notable names from sign and trade deals

Gorgui Dieng has been uninvolved in the Memphis Grizzlies’ game plan

Dieng has served a minimal role on this Grizzlies squad this year. There were even rumors about trade talks surrounding him during the start of the season. The center from Kebemer, Senegal, is averaging 7.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assist for the year.

It appeared certain that Dieng would be out of Memphis, taking into account the fact that he can bring value to a playoff contending team this season.

But the elephant in the room was the load of price that he carried under his belt. The guy is pretty expensive, and the Grizzlies were well aware teams could possibly back out of trade talks with him because of that.

Memphis will more than likely buy out Dieng’s contract. If this isn’t the case, they may end up releasing him. Due to his unique skillset though, somebody will pick him up.