It’s been a difficult 2023-24 NBA season for the Memphis Grizzlies. This is one of the worst teams in the league. If you were strictly looking at the talent on their roster, you’d be quite surprised to hear that.
With context, it’s not surprising at all. Ja Morant hasn’t suited up this season – he’s serving a suspension. Steven Adams never got on the floor due to a season-ending injury.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies let Dillon Brooks join the Houston Rockets in free agency without replacing him. Soon, their fortunes may change. Morant will soon be returning. Don’t be surprised if the Grizzlies win total starts to surge once he does.
Could they shore up their roster by acquiring Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards?
NBA Trade Proposal: Memphis Grizzlies Land Washington Wizards’ Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: F/C Brandon Clarke, C Steven Adams, 2025 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: F Kyle Kuzma
It’s been a difficult 2023-24 NBA season for the Washington Wizards. This is one of the worst teams in the league. If you were strictly looking at the talent on their roster, you wouldn’t be surprised.
Sure, Kuzma is a good player. He isn’t anybody’s idea of a franchise player, either. Otherwise, this is a band of misfits. Jordan Poole is the next biggest name on the roster, and his flaws are well-documented.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
That doesn’t mean that this team’s future is bleak. Bilal Couliaby has flashed immense potential during his rookie year. After trading Bradley Beal, the Wizards are simply beginning a rebuild.
Could they continue rebuilding by moving Kuzma?
Why The Washington Wizards Do The Deal
Some Wizards fans will suggest that they deserve more value for Kuzma. In fairness, he’s putting up star numbers. At the same time, he’s doing it on the Wizards.
Rival front offices will understand that Kuzma’s statistical output is partially inflated. They’ll also see his contract and think twice. Kuzma is locked up for the foreseeable future, and the deal isn’t cheap.
So, a lottery protected first is probably fair value. The Wizards should be satisfied with this return. After all, Clarke is still young enough to be part of a rebuild.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
He’s an intriguing player who can guard multiple positions, finish in the pick-and-roll, and space the floor a bit.
Should the Grizzlies part with him?
Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
There’s a world where this deal doesn’t make Memphis better right away. The Grizzlies are already missing Adams, and we’ve got them trading another player who can soak up time at the 5.
On the other hand, there’s also a world where Memphis’ season is already wasted. They might make this deal with 2024-25 in mind. If they can find a suitable replacement for Adams, adding Kuzma should make them better.
He’s a do-it-all wing who can create his own shot and set up teammates. Kuzma is at worst a neutral defender as well. Sure, his deal is a bit frightening.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Still, his talent may be too much for Memphis to pass up on at this price. If all goes well, they could be in for a successful 2024-25 season.
