With Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension, Dillon Brooks set for free agency, and key contributor Tyus Jones dealt to Washington, the Memphis Grizzlies are set to look a bit different next season.
Of course, while the loss of Jones will be felt, the potential impact of adding 2022 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart gives reason for hope.
Before the Grizzlies surprised us with the trade for Smart, they also reportedly gauged interest in a deal for another former NBA DPOY, Golden State Warriors All-Star Draymond Green. NBA insider Marc Stein notes the Grizzlies had a great amount of interest in the eight-time member of the All-Defensive team.
“I’m told that the Grizzlies’ pre-Smart interest in Green was genuine. And it’s fascinating to simply consider the idea of Green engaging Memphis in free agency conversations after the teams’ past battles.”
Marc Stein on Memphis Grizzlies’ interest in Draymond Green
Interestingly enough, Green is set for free agency this summer, giving all teams a chance to add the four-time All-Star. The 33-year-old had been set to earn $27.6 million on his player option this season, which he recently declined, making him a free agent.
As to the battles Stein speaks to, Green has often targeted the Grizzlies, particularly Dillon Brooks, as of late. Yet, Brooks appears set to depart as a free agent too.
Still, chances are, now that Smart has been added, the Grizzlies are no longer looking for another tone-setting defender. Plus, we can’t forget about reigning Defensive Player of the Year winner Jaren Jackson Jr. either. Meanwhile, Green believes he can still rake in $100 million on his next contract as he seeks to sign with another contender. We should find out if he’s right soon enough.
Related: Top 2023 NBA free agents: Best 100 available with positional breakdowns