Why the Memphis Grizzlies need to trade up in the 2021 NBA Draft

As a Memphis Grizzlies sports writer, I’m always looking for new angles on the NBA Draft. Throughout the entire offseason, I’ve been searching through prospects like Christ Duarte, Franz Wagner, and others.

And while there are some great options available, nobody has stuck out as a game-changing prospect to me. Yes, Chris Duarte is one of the best 3-and-D prospects available but on a roster with three players who already fit that mold, it might not make sense to bring him on.

Pair that with the fact that he’s already 24 years old and his ceiling may be too low to make sense on Beale Street. For reference, he’s older than both Desmond Bane and De’Anthony Melton. He’s also only a year younger than Grayson Allen. This isn’t to say he’s a bad prospect — the pick just wouldn’t make sense with the Grizzlies’ present situation.

And the Grizzlies’ present situation is complicated.

Primarily, there seems to be one single issue revolving around any prospect that the Grizz could snag at No. 17.

Can the Memphis Grizzlies trust a 17th overall pick to fill into the starting-caliber role they’re looking for?

In short, I don’t think so. Yes, players at No. 17 have turned into NBA All-Stars and had strong careers, but at this point in time, it’s hard to see Memphis betting their future on that spot. This is why it would make the most sense to try and trade up.

If Memphis trades up, they’ll be able to dip their toes into lottery range. This would allow them to take a player that would likely be a riskier pick, which is exactly what the Grizz need rn.

Specifically, there is a single player who would fit the Grizzlies’ needs very well. That player is Moses Moody, a length wing who can shoot the ball well. In order to pick him up, Memphis would only have to jump a few spots, which could be done by dumping off some of their excessive depth on the wing.

Two birds, one stone.

At some point, you have to wonder how many 8-point, 2 assist, 2 rebound players the Grizzlies can stockpile. That’s what they have with Allen, Bane, and Melton. If they don’t trade up, that’s likely what they’ll get with whoever they take.

If they are to trade up in the lottery, it would give them a chance to take a high-risk, high-ceiling player who could eventually step into the starting lineup.

Trading up isn’t just a good idea — it’s necessary if Memphis wants to compete for a title down the road.