Memphis Grizzlies fans are breathing a sigh of relief. The rest of the NBA is on notice. Ja Morant is officially back. Unsurprisingly, he looks as explosive as ever.
Morant characteristically razzled and dazzled in his 2023-24 debut. The Grizzlies earned a win over the New Orleans Pelicans as a result.
It’s been a rough season for the Grizzlies, but with their franchise player back in the fold, they may start to turn their fortunes around. With that said, Morant isn’t the only player they’ve been missing this year.
The Grizzlies have been without Steven Adams all year. If they’re going to start moving up through the standings, they may need to replace him.
Could they make a move for Jarrett Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers?
NBA Trade Proposal: Memphis Grizzlies Land Memphis Grizzlies’ Jarrett Allen
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: C Steven Adams, G/F Luke Kennard, 2024 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: C Jarrett Allen
Morant is back. Now, he needs to stay on the floor. The issues that plagued Morant throughout the summer can’t be forgotten. Hopefully, Morant has overcome them.
After all, we’ve seen off-court problems destroy the careers of talented players. Steve Francis was once the most exciting point guard in the NBA.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
In the end, he got in his own way. The Grizzlies can’t afford for Morant to tell a similar story. His talent is undeniable. Morant is a franchise player by any measure. Here’s hoping he can get his personal life in order.
Should the Grizzlies acquire Allen to help him on the basketball floor?
Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
Adams won’t be easy to replace. His functionality on this team was unique. Adams’ aggressiveness on the offensive glass helped Memphis pick up countless extra possessions on a nightly basis.
Allen won’t necessarily provide that edge. Here’s the rub – he is a generally better player than Adams. Allen is a much more reliable rim protector. He’s a more efficient pick-and-roll finisher.
Allen would be the best big man that the Grizzlies have had during the Morant era unless you consider Jaren Jackson Jr. a big man.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Either way, he should form a dominant defensive frontcourt alongside Allen. This acquisition makes sense for the Grizzlies.
Does it work for the Cavaliers?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
It’s been a rough season for the Grizzlies. It’s been a mediocre season for the Cavaliers. This team does not look like title contenders.
Will they make the playoffs? Most likely. Was that the goal? We suspect that Cleveland was hoping for more. Something isn’t working here. Meanwhile, there are long-term fit concerns between Allen and Evan Mobley.
So, it might make sense to cut ties with Allen now. As is Darius Garland, Mobley is out for an extended period with an injury.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
If the Cavs can stomach some short-term pain, this deal could be best for their long-term bottom line. In time, they could breathe a sigh of relief.
