With the Grizzlies’ season fading to oblivion, reports surfaced this week that the front office is willing to deal point guard Mike Conley as well as center Marc Gasol.
Conley is one of the highest-paid floor leaders in the league. He’s making $30.5MM this season, another $32.5MM next season with a $34.5MM player option for the 2020/21 campaign.
It’s rare to find an All-Star caliber floor leader on the market, so Conley is certain to draw some interest. The Jazz have already been mentioned as a potential suitor, pairing Conley with Donovan Mitchell in a high-powered backcourt. Ricky Rubio‘s expiring contract would almost be certainly part of the package in any swap involving those teams.
Frank Urbina of HoopsHype speculated on three other teams that also might chase Conley. Veteran D.J. Augustin has played well for the Magic but Conley would be a huge upgrade feeding the ball to big men Nikola Vucevic and Aaron Gordon. In return, Urbina opines that Jonathan Isaac is the type of young player that could facilitate Memphis’ rebuilding process.
The Mavericks might be another potential landing spot for Conley. Dennis Smith Jr. rejoined Dallas this week after a conversation with coach Rick Carlisle but it’s no secret Smith doesn’t feel comfortable sharing the ball with Luka Doncic. Smith would give Memphis a much younger option at the point with Wesley Matthews‘ expiring contract possibly thrown into the deal.
The Pacers were dealt a crushing blow in their quest to reach the NBA Finals when Victor Oladipo suffered a season-ending quad injury. A deal for Conley could revive their hopes. Some expiring contracts and multiple draft picks could get the job done.
We’ll throw in another team — the Pistons. They’re starved for improved point guard play with Reggie Jackson having a poor season. A package that includes some young players and a first-rounder or two would likely be required.
That leads us to our question of the day: If the Grizzlies deal Mike Conley, which team do you feel would be the best fit for him and why?
Please take to the comments section to weigh in on this topic. We look forward to your input.
Jackson, Leuer, and Kennard, and a 1st for Conley
Mark not Pau
Marc*
I think that the Magic could work out a package for Conley,not that I as Orlando management would, but the pieces are there.
Conley: Detroit, New Orleans, San Antonio, Philadelphia
Dont hate that Mavs trade.
Id say conley to the pels, maybe for payton and randle and assets, but AD might be out too long for that to matter.
point guards are a dime a dozen. conley peaked when he signed his contact, definitely not worth 20m/ season
When did Pau get traded to Memphis? That’s a surprise!
Marc would do quite well next to LMA though
Honestly I think your trade suggestions are overpays. Conley is often injured and getting older on a contract that pays more than he is worth in a league that is salary conscious. If he is dealt it will be for cap relief and spare parts or an even less valuable contract and assets.
Agree about Conley, but “spare parts” is about all I see being mentioned: Rubio, Reggie J, and 21 yr olds Isaac & DSJ, so far disappointing. There’s no guarantee they will get to Conley’s level.
“Cap relief” would be terrific for someone in addition to Conley; (I assume you mean more overpay going in to Memphis than out). I doubt Memphis will do that, compared to just keeping him. He was overpaid to begin with to be a role model.
Actually I doubt either gets traded.