The Memphis Grizzlies had a disastrous season and became a forgotten franchise in the NBA’s stacked Western Conference, finishing 27-55 after losing nearly all of their finest players to injuries.
Memphis is now attempting to regroup, and part of that plan could involve trading up in the NBA Draft for one of the class’s top talents.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Grizzlies have spoken with several teams that have already selected ahead of them about the possibility of trading up for UConn center Donovan Clingan, with Scotto pointing out that in order to do so, Memphis will most likely need to be among the top three picks in the draft.
The Grizzlies have spoken with several teams selecting ahead of them about trading up for Donovan Clingan, per @MikeAScotto (https://t.co/c7wZcnqt1v).
With Clingan receiving serious interest atop the draft, Memphis will likely have to maneuver into the top-three to pull it off. pic.twitter.com/U63JTCwug3
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 15, 2024
This draft lacks clear star power at the top, but Clingan has been touted as a potential top-3 choice after winning two national titles in two seasons with the Huskies.
Clingan, who stands 7’2″, excelled this season, averaging 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game on 63.9 percent shooting. His ability to protect the rim on defense and throw down lobs in the pick-and-roll game make him a highly sought-after player at the next level.
Memphis now has the ninth choice in the lottery and a clear need for a long-term center answer after moving Steven Adams to the Houston Rockets earlier this season, and Clingan would complement former Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson to make an exciting frontcourt combo.
