4 Players the Grizzlies might replace Marcus Smart with by the trade deadline

1. Jarrett Allen

The Grizzlies drafted Zach Edey to replace Steven Adams, but there are plenty of questions about the rookie big man. Edey was dominant in college, but can he defend in space and avoid being played off the floor in the NBA? Contenders relying on rookie starters is dangerous and this could turn into a massive hole for Memphis.

Allen just signed an extension with the Cavaliers, but there are fit questions in Cleveland. If the Cavaliers decide to trade Allen and make Evan Mobley there five, the bidding war will be massive. Finding a 26-year-old All-Star is never easy, but it becomes nearly impossible when adding he is an elite shot blocker and rebounder capable of defending in space.

Ja Morant and Allen would quickly form a dynamic duo with the big man making up for Jaren Jackson’s biggest weakness. He would be the perfect fit, but convincing the Cavs to take Marcus Smart may be challenging given their already undersized backcourt. A three-team trade seems much more likely in this scenario.

The Memphis Grizzlies are likely stuck with Marcus Smart and their current roster this season. The pressure is on for them to return to contention and things could get wild if they need an upgrade before the trade deadline. Only time will tell how it shakes out.