Things Going Well, But Grizzlies Have Roster Decisions On Horizon

December 18, 2024

The Memphis Grizzlies have a tough NBA decision ahead of them: Are some of their veteran players expendable as they look to retool their roster for the long term?

Let’s start with Marcus Smart. The one-time Defensive Player of the Year has two years left on his deal, worth $20.2 million and $20.6 million.

Smart provides immense value as a leader and defensive anchor, but is he a piece Memphis can keep for the long haul, or could they look to move him to make room for younger talent or a better fit?

Speaking of younger talent, Jake LaRavia is showing career-high numbers across the board, including field goal percentage, three-point shooting, and minutes played. But with his team option declined, the Grizzlies can only offer him $5.1 million in the first year of a new deal.

Can they re-sign him without going over budget? LaRavia’s continued improvement could make him too valuable to let go, but are they willing to shell out more for him, especially with the impending price tag of Santi Aldama?

Aldama, who’s been a breakout star this season, is averaging career-high numbers in rebounds, minutes, points, and shooting percentages.

He’s established himself as a key rotation player and has started in more than 10 games. Memphis had a chance to lock him in during extension talks but passed. Will they be willing to pay the price now that his value is rising?

On the frontcourt, the Grizzlies might have more depth than they know what to do with. With the emergence of Jay Huff, plus the eventual return of GG Jackson II and Zach Edey, could Brandon Clarke, with a $12.5 million expiring contract, become a trade chip?

His role is becoming less certain, and his value could be higher on the NBA trade market than in Memphis’ crowded frontcourt.

John Konchar, with his $6.2 million expiring deal, could also be an intriguing trade piece. Could he bring back a second-round pick for Memphis? The Grizzlies will have to decide soon if these players are worth keeping or if they can be leveraged in a deal for future assets.

Off the board for now are the likes of Ja Morant, who’s locked into a long-term deal, and players like Scotty Pippen Jr. (signing restriction) and Jay Huff (signing restriction).

But with a roster that’s already brimming with talent, the Grizzlies might look to move some veterans to make room for the future.

Looking ahead, Memphis has solid financial flexibility. They are currently $1.8 million below the luxury tax and have six trade exceptions to play with, totaling more than $35 million.

They’re also sitting comfortably under the first apron, with $6 million to spare. It’s a great position to make a move, but only if they’re willing to let go of some veterans and make the necessary sacrifices for the future.