Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
The Grizzlies are just welcoming Jaren Jackson Jr. back from an injury. In all likelihood, his ability to stay healthy will impact their season as much as anything.
After all, Jackson Jr. is one of the best defensive frontcourt players in the NBA. Versatility is his calling card. Jackson Jr. can switch between the 5 and the 4 seamlessly.
With that said, the Grizzlies don’t have a player who reliably allows him to spend minutes at the 5. That’s what this deal is about: Barnes could be that player.
In fact, five-out spacing lineups that pair the two should be lethal on both ends of the floor. The Grizzlies will miss Brooks, but Barrnes should be worth a little more to them.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Harrison Barnes, Sacramento Kings & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Sometimes, those marginal gains have a larger-than-expected impact.