6 Trades Grizzlies could make to solve rebounding woes
By Tyler Watts
2. Target an All-Star
The Cavaliers won 51 regular season games last season and were tied for the fifth-best record in the NBA before being bounced by the Knicks in the first round of the playoffs.
It left Cleveland with significant roster questions. Can they win in the postseason with two small star guards in the backcourt? Is Evan Mobley best at the five? The Cavs targeted their need on the wing this offseason, but it may not be enough to change their fortunes.
If they want to play Mobley at the five, Cleveland needs to trade Jarrett Allen. There were some rumblings (subscription required) this offseason, but nothing appeared close. With the Grizzlies’ need, talks on the All-Star could intensify quickly, but the final package would likely look something like this.
The Cavs gave up one first-round pick plus a second to acquire Allen in 2021. Since then, he has become an All-Star, increased his scoring, and proven to be an impactful big man on both ends of the floor. There are questions about his playoff impact after last season, but it is a five-game sample. Allen is a standout big man.
This is a hefty price to pay, but the Grizzlies get three prime seasons of Jarrett Allen who instantly solves their rebounding woes. He offers more scoring than Adams and could take his game to a new level with a few more opportunities in Grind City.
This is a significant swing for the Memphis Grizzlies, but they might go for superstar big man before the deadline.