The Memphis Grizzlies should be in the business of building their roster to reach contention status as their core players enter their prime years. With depth wing piece John Konchar as the oldest remaining player on the team who will be under contract next season, the team needs to get older in the top half of their rotation.
Their starting five is set with Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaylen Wells, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Zach Edey if the team doesn't swing for the fences. However, adding a player of the caliber of Dallas Mavericks' forward P.J. Washington could take the team to new heights, just as his addition spearheaded an NBA Finals run after his trade to Dallas last season.
Despite Washington not fitting making the team older aspect (he will be 27 years old when next season begins), his experience in his long playoff run last season fits what the Grizzlies need. With Cooper Flagg being added to the Mavericks lineup after the NBA Draft next month, P.J. Washington could become expendable.
The Grizzlies should inquire about PJ Washington's availability
Washington will be entering the last year of his contract, priced at $14.1 million, and likely be looked to be moved with Cooper Flagg playing his same position. The Grizzlies need as many productive two-way players as they can find to add to their lineup if they decide to run it back with their current core of Morant, Jackson Jr., and Bane.
The 6'7" wing from the University of Kentucky averaged 14.7 points and 7.8 rebounds on 38.1% shooting from three this season. He also showed his value on the defensive end, averaging 1.1 steals and blocks each, as one of the team's primary perimeter defenders.
Washington will likely want to compete for a starting position, which is unlikely with Flagg's pending arrival in Dallas. Jaylen Wells is currently the starting small forward for the Grizzlies and entering his second NBA season, which could provide a fun competition.
While a trade would have to be executed to obtain P.J. Washington, his rebounding numbers and tough nature allow him to play both forward positions. Utilizing a sign-and-trade with restricted forward Santi Aldama could be the move if there is mutual interest between him and Dallas.
Also, Grizzlies' reserve forward Brandon Clarke could become available for a player of that caliber who checks off multiple boxes for a team with a huge need in that department. Washington's production and value to the Mavericks' NBA Finals run in 2024 is what should intrigue Memphis to make a move of this caliber.