Asking price for 'top' Grizzlies trade target revealed

For months now, fans and media pundits alike have been clamoring about the possibility of this Memphis Grizzlies team making some splashy transaction via the trade market, and, with just over a month separating now and February 8's deadline, talk on the matter has recently been ramped up.

While there have been a slew of names found linked to the franchise as possible trade options, in a January 1 piece by Bleacher Report, writer Zach Buckley made the argument that Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma should be the team's "top" target, citing the fact that his arrival could have him "settle in as their second or third scorer," something they desperately need.

While there's been no strong word on whether the 28-year-old is even being eyed by the Grizzlies this trade season, in the event that they are open to the idea, on Friday Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports revealed what it would likely take for the team to acquire his services.

Possible Grizzlies trade target, Kyle Kuzma's asking price revealed

"Early impressions are the Wizards hope to receive multiple first-round picks for Kuzma, with the goal of receiving maximum draft capital for other players down their roster as well."

- Jake Fischer

Currently in his seventh season in the association, Kuzma finds himself putting forth career-best efforts virtually all across the board, as he's averaging 22.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists while shooting 46.8 percent from the floor and 35.7 percent from distance.

Despite his stellar production thus far, the Wizards are still merely cellar dwellers in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 6-27, which is likely the catalyst for why the forward has emerged as a potential trade candidate as the franchise could easily look to sell off their more established assets to pivot toward a total rebuild.

If Kuzma is actually being shopped, even though this reported asking price of multiple firsts may be perceived as steep, considering the Grizzlies have the capability of trading up to four first-round picks coupled with their need for a legitimate starting small forward, coughing up such capital for his talents should be strongly considered, especially being he'd be under contract through 2027.