Memphis Grizzlies: 3 big trades to land a third star in Memphis

May 8, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam (43) drives to the basket against Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks (24) during the second half at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam (43) drives to the basket against Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks (24) during the second half at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Memphis Grizzlies
Michael Porter Jr., Memphis Grizzlies . Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

If Michael Porter Jr. grows tired of playing the third wheel in Denver, perhaps the Memphis Grizzlies could swoop in and make him the focal point of the offense

This is a Memphis Grizzlies trade that could be high risk, high reward. Like Jaren Jackson, Jr., Michael Porter Jr. is also due for a contract extension.

If the Nuggets sense MPJ may not want to sign a long-term extension, they could flip him for a sizeable return.

However, to make this trade even remotely worthwhile (for both teams), the Grizz would need assurances that MPJ would be willing to sign and play for the team long-term.

This is a trade worth exploring because MPJ is such a skilled player. Last season he averaged 19 points per game and hit an astounding 45.5% from three-point range. He can go and get you 30+ points on any given night when he’s feeling it.

Denver could look to get deeper and collect assets for the future while doing so. Dillon Brooks would be an immediate upgrade over Will Barton. He would also be able to further improve the Nuggets defensive rating, which will be paramount come playoff time—Denver finished 11th in defensive rating last season.

If Michael Porter Jr. wants out of Denver and Memphis is able to sign him long-term, the starting lineup for the Grizzlies could be: Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Michael Porter, Jr., Jaren Jackson, Jr., and Steven Adams.

This would obviously make Kyle Anderson expendable, which is not shocking considering he’s already rumored to be available for the right price, according to recent reports around the NBA.

3 players who might not finish the 2021 season on Beale Street. dark. Next

If the Memphis Grizzlies trade for a third star, you can expect it to radically transform the team’s roster. At some point, the