6 Trades Grizzlies could make to solve rebounding woes
By Tyler Watts
3. Memphis gets in on a blockbuster
The Hawks have interest in Pascal Siakam (subscription required) but have been unable to pry him away for Toronto to this point. The two-time All-Star is in the final year of his contract, so the Raptors have a decision to make before the deadline. They cannot afford to lose him in free agency, so it is time to extend or trade him.
Atlanta just signed Onyeka Okongwu to a four-year $62 million extension, and the Hawks need to clear the logjam before paying $36.2 million to their two centers combined next season. If they acquire Siakam, Capela should be on the block. The Raptors just signed Jakob Poeltl, which likely means getting a third team involved in the deal.
This could be a fantastic way for the Raptors to maximize Siakam’s value. His expiring contract will keep the price down, but the Grizzlies would likely give up a first-round pick to land Clint Capela. He is one of the league’s best rebounders and screeners who offers strong rim protection. The Raptors take it for accepting the contracts of Steven Adams and De’Andre Hunter.
This trade seems like a win for all three sides. The Raptors are not getting a bigger offer for Siakam unless he has already agreed to an extension with the new organization. Atlanta gets their third star, and the Grizzlies get a near-perfect fit next to Jaren Jackson Jr. at the five. Toronto has been hesitant to make trades, but this could be too good to pass up if the team is struggling.