Why the Memphis Grizzlies would trade Dillon Brooks to Boston
The Memphis Grizzlies may have some interest in moving off of Brooks for a few reasons. One being the team played well without him in the regular season. The team has a record of 33-14 in games played without Dillon Brooks in 2021-22.
Secondly, Brooks will be a free agent upon the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. He’s due for a big pay raise from the roughly $12 million per year he’s currently making. Memphis has already awarded Jaren Jackson Jr. with a huge contract ($105 million). They’ll be giving out an even bigger one to Ja Morant when he’s eligible for his first post-rookie contract extension. Same goes for Desmond Bane.
The team is going to have three players account for a big chunk of the salary cap within the next season or two. Marcus Smart and Derrick White are both locked in for the next four years at around $14-$15 million each. It’s a much more team-friendly price than what Brooks will be looking for as a free agent in about 16 months.
Third and perhaps the biggest reason will hinge on whether or not the Grizzlies can re-sign back-up point guard Tyus Jones. If Memphis fails to strike a deal to bring Jones back, they will need a veteran back-up and Smart or White would fit that role pretty nicely.
These are all big hypotheticals, but plausible reasons for Memphis entertaining a trade offer for one of their best all-around players.