3 realistic targets for the Memphis Grizzlies at the trade deadline

The Wizards’ misfortune could breed opportunity for the Memphis Grizzlies

The Washington Wizards just learned that Bradley Beal is reportedly undergoing season-ending wrist surgery, likely removing him from trade talks.

The Wizards could be looking to punt on the season, trim salary and look at making a massive contract extension offer to Beal this offseason.

To do that, they could look to get rid of Kyle Kuzma, making $13 million this season. He under contract for the rest of this season plus two more full seasons, which is great value.

Kuzma, in his fifth season out of Utah, is averaging 16.1 ppg and 8.7 rpg. He’s shooting better than 45% from the field and better than 33% from beyond the arc.

It’s unclear if Kuzma would even be available— is he viewed as a building block with Beal or a bargaining chip to allocate more assets? If he is available, the Grizzlies should make an offer for him to bolster their bench and create more scoring options off the bench.

The Wizards may desire Brandon Clarke in any hypothetical deal—a young player to develop with fellow Gonzaga alums Rui Hachimura and Corey Kispert.

Kuzma would have an instant impact on the offensive end of the court and would be able to take advantage of defenders trying to corral Ja Morant and/or Jaren Jackson Jr.

At 6’9″ and just 26 years old, fits the timeline and mold of player that the Grizzlies have been searching for to add to their roster.

The former Laker and now Wizard, is just now starting to hit his stride as an NBA player and would be able to grow with Jackson Jr. and one of the league’s brightest young stars, Ja Morant.