3. Tyus Jones
It sounds crazy, and it might even be a bit controversial, but there is a world in which Tyus Jones is not on this team on opening night next season. Jones is the best backup point guard in the entire NBA and he has been wonderful for this team in the regular season but there is an elephant in the room that is worth addressing.
Jones has stunk in the playoffs two years in a row for the Grizzlies and fans are starting to take notice. One bad postseason is one thing but another bad showing in which the Grizzlies were shocked in the first round is another.
It is safe to say that Jones’ stock has been much higher than it currently is with the fanbase. Nobody wants to see him go if the price is not right but this team might be better maximized if he is not on the roster next season.
As much as Jones struggled, he is still a very talented player and there are so many teams in the NBA that are going to sell themselves on Jones. The Grizzlies can get quite a lot for trading someone who is overqualified to be a backup.
His contract is even more tradeable than Clarke’s as well. Jones is making $14 million next season and is on an expiring contract, making him the perfect point guard for a contending team to sell itself on without there being long-term implications.
A lot still needs to develop this offseason but with the Grizzlies needing another wing, there is a lot of potential to flip Jones, an asset and/or Clarke for a talented player.
Memphis Grizzlies: 15 players who defined Grit and Grind
The "Grit and Grind" moniker is synonymous with Memphis Grizzlies basketball. Here are the 15 players who have defined this era of Grizzlies hoops.