While the Memphis Grizzlies have had a successful season to this point, their embarrassing loss at the New York Knicks on January 27th put a major pause on the fanbase's championship aspirations.
The Grizzlies remain as the third-seed in the Western Conference standings with a matchup against the second-seeded Houston Rockets on tap for January 30th but their play against other good teams isn't promising.
The Grizzlies are tied for 28th in the NBA in schedule strength at this moment. Therefore, they have the third-hardest remaining schedule for the remainder of their 35 games this season. Their record against teams with a .500 and above record following their 37-point blowout loss in New York is 12-11.
The Knicks presented them with their first loss against the East's best as the Grizzlies' record is 5-1 against the teams .500 and over in the East. Their 7-10 record against the West, including 0-4 against the top two-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, is what has the fanbase in an uproar, as their playoff matchups will be against Western Conference foes.
The Grizzlies' need for a veteran wing like Jimmy Butler becomes more amplified by the day as the trade deadline approaches. However, the Grizzlies will need to cross a checklist before making a what could be a high risk high reward type of move.
Ensure Jimmy Butler would show up
It has been no secret that Jimmy Butler doesn't welcome a trade to the Memphis Grizzlies, and it has been documented throughout the past month through various channels. Another thing of note is that the Memphis Grizzlies have been the only team to be named dropped as places Jimmy Butler doesn't welcome a trade to.
However, the Grizzlies are one of a few teams that have a compelling package along with matching salaries to make a trade for the disgruntled star. They are also one of, if not, the only team that is considered a championship contender that can make a trade for Butler without hindering their roster to push them forward towards championship contention.
The Grizzlies could gamble on the fact that they could present Jimmy Butler's best opportunity to win a championship this season. Also, most players that go to the Memphis Grizzlies typically enjoy their time there.
The gamble is Jimmy Butler's current antics and previous antics when he was a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves and wanted out. It's hard to imagine a scenario where Butler is on a true championship-contending team without him having to carry the team and not show up, but he is a wild card.
Memphis has a chance to potentially become the favorites to win an NBA championship this season with that type of trade or derail their hopes altogether. That's why it is paramount that they convince him to consider Memphis as a destination before pulling the trigger and risking the alternative.