6 Players Grizzlies can acquire to help Ja Morant get back on track
By Tyler Watts
4. Harrison Barnes
The Grizzlies are in desperate need of a forward with some size if they plan on playing Jaren Jackson Jr. at the five in clutch moments. Ja Morant and Marcus Smart are an undersized backcourt with Desmond Bane playing the three. Memphis needs a 6’8 forward capable of spacing the floor and bringing some leadership.
Barnes is a career 38.0 percent 3-point shooter with championship experience. He helped the Warriors hang a banner in 2015 and make two NBA Finals. Barnes has played several different roles, but the 31-year-old has settled in as a role player on a contender.
He has been part of the Kings' resurgence over the last two years. The 6'8 forward has been a starter for the majority of his 12-year NBA career but is playing under 30 minutes per game for the first time since 2015. Keegan Murray is taking over at the four, which could put Barnes on the trade block this summer.
HB has two years and $37 million remaining on his contract after this season. Memphis would need to trade Luke Kennard or Brandon Clarke to fit him on their roster, but it is not out of the question. Barnes would certainly improve their space and give the Grizzlies a needed combo forward with championship experience.