The Memphis Grizzlies find themselves in an unfamiliar spot this June: The NBA Draft lottery. But apparently they're not dead set on staying there.
After making the playoffs for seven straight seasons, the Grizz fell on hard times this year as the Grit 'N Grind era officially came to a close. A season-ending injury to Mike Conley left Memphis in a losing spiral, and it ended up with a 22-60 record, which earned the franchise the No. 4 pick in the draft. However, leading up to next Thursday, Memphis is exploring trade options for that pick, provided that the other team is willing to take on Chandler Parsons' contract. Via The Athletic's Michael Scotto:
The Memphis Grizzlies have gauged the trade market on a package of Chandler Parsons and the No. 4 overall pick, league sources told The Athletic.
Parsons, who has missed 94 combined games over the past two seasons, is owed $49.2 million guaranteed over the next two seasons.
Not that we've been connected in any way to this deal, but it's fun to at least consider.
Granted, Parsons has (arguably) the worst contract in the NBA currently (and possibly ever), but would you be willing to take on Parsons' max deal (2 years, ~50 million left) in combination with the 4th overall pick for some asset in return? Apparently, the Grizzlies aren't tanking next year because Boston has their pick and they think they can make the playoffs with Conley back.
Doncic would be a no brainer for us if he's available at 4. Bamba could be the next Giannis in terms of a generational player due to his athleticism and physical tools. I don't want anything to do with Bagley, but JJJ is interesting and Michael Porter Jr. is a huge contender to be taken at that spot if our medical staff clears him.