If you love the NBA, you’re getting excited. It’s officially trade season. The Toronto Raptors got the proceedings underway. Recently, they sent OG Anunoby to the New York Knicks.
This should be the first domino. We’ll see increased activity around the league now. Realistically, the Raptors aren’t even done. This team is widely expected to move Pascal Siakam before the trade deadline passes.
Why stop there? The Raptors have other useful veterans on their squad. For example, a team in need of a big man could take a look at Jakob Poeltl.
How about the Memphis Grizzlies?
NBA Trade Proposal: Memphis Grizzlies Land Toronto Raptors’ Jakob Poeltl
Toronto Raptors Receive: C Steven Adams, F/C Brandon Clarke, 2025 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: C Jakob Poeltl
Fans have been waiting for the Raptors to make a move. From the Raptors’ point of view, they may have waited too long. It was long suggested that the Raptors sought multiple first-round picks in exchange for Anunoby. Ultimately, they received a couple of young players and a second-rounder.
Is it possible that we misjudged the Raptors’ priorities? It was widely reported that they declined an offer of three unprotected firsts for Anunoby. Perhaps they didn’t want draft capital.
The Raptors are surely confident that Scottie Barnes will be ready to carry a playoff push soon – they may want to surround him with players in his age group.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jakob Poeltl, Toronto Raptors, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
That’s the nature of rumors. They can be misinterpreted. Either way, the Raptors have suddenly got an interesting young core.
Does this deal help them strengthen it?
Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal
If the Raptors want young players, they may like this move. Clarke is young enough to part of this team’s future. He’s a solid combo big who can guard multiple positions and finish pick and rolls with high efficiency.
Moreover, the Raptors also grab some draft capital here. Granted, the pick is heavily protected. That’s because they’re also getting Clarke. This deal strikes a balance between prioritizing the medium and long term.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jakob Poeltl, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors Updates
In the short term, Adams is on an expiring contract. The Raptors get Poeltl off the books and free up some space in the process by making this move.
Should the Grizzlies add Poeltl’s deal to their ledger?
Why The Memphis Grizzlies Do The Deal
Some Grizzlies fans won’t like this deal. As it stands, Memphis is outside of the playoff picture. Why are they giving up young players and assets at this juncture?
Context is key. The Grizzlies began the year without Ja Morant. They’ve spent the entire season without Steven Adams. This team is better than their record suggests. Here, the Grizzlies are making a bet on the talent on their roster.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jakob Poeltl, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors Updates
They could be a playoff team after adding Poeltl. He’s a similarly effective screen setter as Adams, and he’s a better defensive player. This deal should get Memphis back on track – don’t be surprised if they get in on the trade season action soon.
