The 2023-24 NBA season was less than stellar for the Memphis Grizzlies, largely due to star player Ja Morant’s absence for the bulk of the season. The team, under the guidance of coach Taylor Jenkins, recorded a disappointing 27-55 finish, leaving them far from playoff contention in the competitive Western Conference. Despite the setbacks, the Grizzlies are not lowering their expectations for the upcoming season. With a core group that includes Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane, Memphis is gearing up for what could be a transformative offseason.
Draft Day Decisions: Memphis Grizzlies Eyes a Strategic Trade-Up
As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, the Memphis Grizzlies find themselves in an unusual position with the ninth overall pick—a spot they’re unlikely to be in again soon, given their ambitions and roster potential. In a draft class perceived as one of the weakest in recent years, Memphis is exploring every opportunity to capitalize on their draft assets. This includes potentially trading up to secure a higher pick and snatch a player who can make an immediate impact.
Donovan Clingan’s Appeal: Why Memphis Grizzlies Wants Him
Enter Donovan Clingan, the towering UConn center who has captured the attention of several NBA franchises, including the Grizzlies. Clingan, standing at 7-foot-2, is a formidable presence in the paint, known for his impressive performance on the court with averages of 13.0 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, alongside a shooting percentage of 64%. His ability to dominate inside the key makes him an attractive prospect for teams looking for a traditional center with a reliable floor.
Jeremy Woo of ESPN has reported that Memphis is actively pursuing options to move up in the draft, joining the likes of Portland and Chicago in this endeavor. The Grizzlies’ interest in Clingan is particularly strategic. With his recent track record, including leading the Huskies to back-to-back national championships, Clingan has proven his value on the national stage, making him a coveted asset in the upcoming draft.
Potential Trade Scenarios and Strategic Implications
The Grizzlies might find a willing trade partner in the Houston Rockets, who hold the third overall pick and are open to trading it for an established All-Star player. Memphis could potentially offer up Desmond Bane or future draft picks to sweeten the deal. Such a move would not only secure a higher draft pick but also demonstrate Memphis’s commitment to building a competitive team around its young core.
This draft season, the stakes are high for the Grizzlies as they navigate through a pivotal offseason. Their ability to execute a strategic trade could very well set the tone for their future, signaling a new era of competitiveness and ambition. As the draft day approaches, all eyes will be on Memphis to see how they maneuver through these opportunities to enhance their roster and elevate their game in the highly competitive NBA landscape.
Source- Sportsnaut
