Every NBA team is expected to be in the running for Giannis Antetokounmpo, although the Memphis Grizzlies might be better off without him.
The Memphis Grizzlies, after getting swept in the first round of the NBA playoffs, are expected to make massive moves this offseason. They could trade away Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., fully embracing a rebuild, or they could flip their young assets for a complementary star to go with their core.
In the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks are reeling after their third first-round loss in as many seasons. Heading into the offseason, the league’s biggest storyline is centered on Giannis Antetokounmpo and whether he will be traded.
The Grizzlies, along with every other NBA team, are expected to explore avenues to land the MVP finalist.
Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty ImagesMemphis Grizzlies address trade rumors
Unless the Oklahoma City Thunder or Denver Nuggets somehow add Antetokounmpo, he will immediately take over as the best player on the roster. The team will immediately be built around him, as he is one of the best and most accomplished players in the league.
While adding him boosts a team’s title hopes, going about trading for him and outbidding everyone else is a near-impossible task. The Grizzlies are a long shot, but in theory, they could build a trade package for the Greek Freak.
That said, not everyone is thrilled about possibly adding him.
“That’ll be insane,” said GG Jackson of adding Giannis. “He’s definitely a player that can come into any organization, any offensive system, any defensive system, and make an immediate impact. I really don’t know how far we’re looking into that.
“But, you know, I’m not opposed to anything, mainly because that’s above my pay grade. But, and just, you know, he’s a legendary player in the flesh. So, you know, whatever we can get to help us get over that hump, I feel like we kind of should take it, I guess so.”
Jackson wasn’t chomping at the bit to add Giannis, possibly because he would likely be sent to a rebuilding Bucks’ team in the trade, although there is an avenue for Antetokounmpo and Jackson to share the floor in Memphis.
Mock trade sends Giannis Antetokounmpo to Memphis Grizzlies
Based on Jackson talking about his fit next to the Greek Freak, he is not included in this mock trade, although the Bucks would likely push for him to join their roster.
Full Mock Trade Details
Grizzlies receive: Giannis AntetokounmpoBucks receive: Desmond Bane, Brandon Clarke, Jaylen Wells, 2027 first-round pick, 2029 first-round pick, 2031 first-round pick, 2025 second-round pick (via GSW), 2028 second-round pick (via SAC), 2031 second-round pick
This package likely isn’t enough for the Bucks to send their best player to the Grizzlies. Assuming that Morant, Jackson Jr., and Antetokounmpo play together for the next several seasons, the incoming picks in 2027 and 2029 will likely not be very valuable.
While Wells gives the Bucks a key piece to build around, he is not the first option moving forward, which is the type of player the Bucks will be seeking.
With the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks capable of offering the second and first overall picks, the Grizzlies will likely have to include GG Jackson in the deal at the very least.