
While the Grizzlies boast a strong core led by Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson, their most glaring weakness remains the absence of a high-level 3-and-D player with size. Make no mistake—Marcus Smart is a valuable veteran who provides crucial two-way play for Memphis. However, at just 6-foot-3, Smart lacks the height needed to effectively challenge bigger wings.
Given the abundance of elite wings in the Western Conference, it would be wise for Memphis to secure a player with the necessary size. Although GG Jackson, Vince Williams Jr., Jaylen Wells, and Jake LaRavia are potential internal options, relying too heavily on them at this stage of their development could be risky.
With such a talented core ready to compete, the Grizzlies are well-positioned to make a move now. Without acquiring a versatile big wing capable of elite defense, Memphis risks facing the same postseason struggles as in previous years.
Missing Out on Dorian Finney-Smith Hurt
Earlier in the 2024-25 season, the Grizzlies front office attempted to address their roster deficiency by pursuing Dorian Finney-Smith. At 6-foot-7, Finney-Smith would have been an ideal fit, providing the size and defensive versatility Memphis desperately needs. While playing for the Nets, he was averaging 10.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game while shooting an impressive 43.5 percent from beyond the arc.
Unfortunately, Memphis missed out, as the Los Angeles Lakers moved quickly and successfully traded for Finney-Smith along with Shake Milton. In return, Brooklyn received former All-Star D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and multiple second-round picks.
Losing out on Finney-Smith was a setback for the Grizzlies’ playoff ambitions. However, they still have other trade options available before the deadline.
Exploring a Trade with Brooklyn for Cameron Johnson
Grizzlies receive: Cameron Johnson ($22.5 million)
Nets receive: Brandon Clarke ($12.5 million), John Konchar ($6.1 million), and Santi Aldama ($3.96 million)
Although Memphis failed to land Finney-Smith, Brooklyn still has another sizable wing on the trade market—Cameron Johnson. Standing at 6-foot-8, Johnson could be an even better fit for the Grizzlies. He also brings valuable playoff experience, having played a key role in the Phoenix Suns’ run to the 2021 NBA Finals.
Johnson is currently enjoying the best season of his career, averaging a career-high 19.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game while shooting an efficient 49.9 percent from the field and 42.8 percent from three-point range. Acquiring Johnson would significantly bolster Memphis’ postseason prospects, as he is a seamless plug-and-play addition alongside Morant and Jackson.
However, the Grizzlies must act quickly, as Johnson is attracting interest from other contenders. To facilitate a deal, Memphis could offer Brandon Clarke, John Konchar, and Santi Aldama. Konchar should appeal to Brooklyn, as reports suggest the Nets had interest in him earlier this season. His role has also diminished, with his minutes dropping from 21.3 per game last season to just 14.2 this year.
Additionally, the Grizzlies could include Clarke, who is struggling to regain form following an injury, while Aldama would serve as a key asset for Brooklyn. For Memphis, parting with the young Spanish big man before his contract expires allows them to gain a critical piece in return.
With the trade deadline looming, Memphis has an opportunity to make a move that could propel them into serious championship contention.