3 blockbuster trades involving star NBA players: Kristaps Porzingis traded to the Memphis Grizzlies
Grizzlies receive: Kristaps Porzingis, Sterling Brown
Mavericks receive: Steven Adams, Kyle Anderson, 2022 First-Round Pick (via LAL), 2024 Second-Round Pick (via TOR)
Rumors of a Kristaps Porzingis trade have been swirling around since the end of last season. He didn’t play too well in the playoffs and has even struggled a bit to start the season this year, too.
However, he has shown some real promise in recent games. Over his last five games, Porzingis has averaged 21.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 50.0 percent from the field and 34.8 percent from deep.
Back in his days with New York, he was an elite defender as well. If Memphis can get him back to that level, he would be a big-time help on that end.
Even if they aren’t able to, he would still pair nicely next to Jaren Jackson Jr. in the frontcourt. Either one could play the center position, and both are fully capable of stretching the floor for Ja Morant, who does most of his work in the paint.
Meanwhile, Memphis is able to keep all of their young assets on the team. However, the Mavericks would get some much-needed depth alongside Luka Doncic.
Steven Adams played the best basketball of his career next to an elite playmaker in Russell Westbrook. In Dallas, he would be an elite pick n’ roll threat next to Doncic.
As for Kyle Anderson, is a great 3&D guy to pair with Doncic. The Mavs need three-point shooting help, as well as help on the defensive end, and he gives them both of those things.
Memphis would get to take a chance on a former superstar in the making, while Dallas gets some depth. This seems like a win-win trade for both sides.