A potential blockbuster offseason trade involving Zion Williamson and the Memphis Grizzlies has sparked plenty of discussion around the NBA, with analysts debating what Memphis would have to offer to land the explosive forward. If the Grizzlies want to make a serious push for Williamson, they’d have to part ways with valuable assets—both current players and future draft picks.
One of the more dramatic trade ideas floating around includes a straight-up swap of Zion Williamson for Ja Morant. This trade would essentially see the No. 1 and No. 2 picks from the 2019 NBA Draft exchange teams. While both players have superstar potential, Morant has been more consistent on the court, despite off-court controversies, whereas Zion has struggled with injuries throughout his career. To sweeten the deal for Memphis, the Pelicans would likely include a couple of first-round picks, acknowledging the health risk Zion brings with him.
Another route the Grizzlies could explore is holding onto Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., and instead offering a package centered around Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, and multiple future first-round picks. This would allow Memphis to maintain its core while taking a calculated gamble on Zion’s ceiling. His offensive power and physical dominance could potentially take the Grizzlies to the next level—if he stays healthy.
There’s also a scenario where Memphis sends out Jaren Jackson Jr., Ziaire Williams, De’Anthony Melton, and a first-round pick to New Orleans in exchange for Williamson, Devonte’ Graham, and Larry Nance Jr. This package would balance win-now talent and draft capital for the Pelicans while giving Memphis a fresh pairing of Morant and Williamson.
In any case, acquiring Zion Williamson would require Memphis to surrender significant talent and future assets. The move could define the franchise’s direction for years, making it a high-risk, high-reward gamble.
