Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F/C Jaren Jackson Jr., G/F Dillon Brooks, 2023 First-Round Pick (MEM), 2025 First-Round Pick (MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: G Damian Lillard
This would feel like the most obvious iteration of a potential team between these sides.
After all, Jackson Jr. is the most intriguing young player the Grizzlies have outside of Morant. Obviously, including him would be a non-starter. The Grizzlies won’t trade a 22-year-old MVP candidate for a potentially former one.
The Grizzlies are only going to acquire Lillard to pair with Morant. The fit should be great: Lillard spaces the floor outstandingly well, so he’ll stay busy when Morant has the ball. Morant could stand to improve his shooting, but he’ll still command defensive attention when Lillard is operating.
Meanwhile, the Blazers land a great player to start a rebuild around in Jackson Jr. He’s one of the league’s elite stretch big men, and a capable rim protector in addition to his shooting. Adding two first-round picks is a huge bonus in light of Jackson Jr.’s value.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Memphis Grizzlies Among Teams We’d Love To See Trade For Portland Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard?
On the other hand, either side could reject this deal. The Grizzlies may hesitate to acquire another guard at the expense of such a valuable frontcourt player. Meanwhile, the Blazers may want more picks. In either case, the next deal may suit each side better.
