Memphis Grizzlies: What The Grizzlies Are Thankful For So Far!

The Trade in the Offseason that Brought in Kosta Koufos

Nov 27, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward/center Kosta Koufos (41) reacts after a three point basket during the first quarter against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Last year the Grizzlies tried about 5 different players at the backup center from Hamed Haddadi to Marreese Speights, who were both traded during the season. None of the 5 players were able to really play any meaningful minutes and truly spell Gasol, so the Grizzlies management made a trade to bring in 5 year man Kosta Koufos in the offseason. Koufos had started 81 games last year for the 57 win Denver Nuggets. During that season Koufos had a career year for him as he set career highs in points (8 per game), rebounds (6.9 per game), and blocks (1.3 per game). When the Grizzlies made this move they had in mind Koufos coming off the bench to spell Gasol to keep him ready for the playoffs, but with the injury to Gasol the trade for Koufos has proved to be huge. In the two games he has started for Gasol, Koufos has played well averaging 7.5 points, 13 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks. Yes the injury to Gasol will be hard to overcome but Koufos will make it easier with his play.