Grizzlies rival tabbed as 'surprise' landing spot for top trade target

Dating back to the offseason, fans and media pundits alike have discussed ad nauseam about how the Memphis Grizzlies should look to find a long-term solution to their lackluster wing rotation, as they've been void of any dependable option since the departure of Dillon Brooks this past summer.

Though the club has struggled mightily through the first half of 2023-24 what with their record of 16-27 and, in turn, are more focused on claiming a higher draft pick rather than clinching their fourth-straight playoff berth, recent rumors suggest that GM Zach Kleiman is still interested in bolstering their starting three spot, with Wizards stud Kyle Kuzma being viewed as a "top" trade option to consider pursuing

However, along with the Grizzlies, there are currently several other ball clubs that are reported to have interest in acquiring the 28-year-old, and, per Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report, their rivals, the Golden State Warriors, could very well prove to be a "surprise" landing spot for his services.

Warriors a 'surprise' landing spot for Grizzlies trade target, Kyle Kuzma

"Few teams should be as motivated to swing a big trade at the deadline as the Golden State Warriors, a team currently two games away from even making the West play-in tournament.

The addition of Kyle Kuzma would help jump-start what's become a lethargic offense, giving the Warriors a secondary scoring option behind Stephen Curry.

The 28-year-old can line up at either forward position, either playing the 4 in small-ball lineups with Draymond Green at center or sliding up to the 3 if the Warriors play a more traditional big. Kuzma has become a better and more willing passer now seven years into his career and should fit into Steve Kerr's ball-movement-heavy offense."

- Greg Swartz

An established bucket-getter with championship experience already included on his resume (won title with Lakers in 2020), it should come as no surprise that the struggling Dubs (18-22) are interested in adding a player like Kuzma to help give a much-needed boost to their middling 13-ranked offensive unit.

Frankly, his particular skill-set would be just as valuable to the Warriors as it is presumed to be for the Grizzlies and, though they may not be in a position to contend for a deep playoff run this year, they should still be looking into pursuing a guy like the Wizards star with next season in mind, as he could prove to be a seamless fit alongside Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Steven Adams.

This alone should serve as motivation to land him and his remaining three years under contract, but the idea of snatching him up before the Warriors should only add extra drive for them to make such a pursuit.

Amid his best season as a pro, Kuzma is posting impressive per-game averages of 21.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists on 45.5 percent shooting from the field through 42 games played.