GOOD NEWS: Ja Morant, the standout player for the Memphis Grizzlies, received an Award as the top performer thus far in the NBA and was selected during the draft…

After posting a 27-55 record last season, many expected the Memphis Grizzlies to enter a rebuilding phase. However, rumors suggest that they’re approaching the upcoming NBA Draft with the mindset of a contender.

According to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, the Grizzlies are considering trading their No. 9 draft pick, especially with star guard Ja Morant returning from injury. While this doesn’t guarantee a trade, the team is exploring all options, potentially seeking veteran help to fortify their roster for a competitive season.

General Manager Zach Kleiman must carefully evaluate trade offers to maximize the pick’s value and extend the team’s championship window. Despite finishing with the seventh-worst record, Memphis landed the ninth pick, which might prompt them to trade it, considering the lack of standout prospects in this draft class, as noted by The Daily Memphian’s Drew Hill.

Hill speculates that if the Grizzlies’ preferred prospect isn’t available, they might opt to trade the pick. This draft class lacks clear-cut top talents, with most prospects seen as potential All-Stars rather than superstars, according to analysis by Sam Vecenie of The Athletic.

Given the return of key players like Morant, Marcus Smart, and Desmond Bane, Kleiman might prioritize immediate roster upgrades over developing a mid-level draft pick. With a healthy roster, Memphis has demonstrated its competitiveness, amassing 107 wins over the previous two seasons. Therefore, utilizing the draft pick as a trade asset to strengthen the team’s depth could be a strategic move to propel them back to the upper echelons of the Western Conference.