(Photo by Jeenah Moon/Getty Images)
The 2024 NBA Draft is just around the corner, but unlike what happens every year, this isn’t particularly an exciting event.
The class of 2024 is quite thin, to say the least, and there’s not that much talent to crave after the first three selections.
However, that does leave the door open for multiple transactions to take place, as first-round picks won’t be as valuable this year and teams could be more tempted to part ways with those otherwise highly-coveted assets.
With that in mind, don’t be shocked if we see a bit of a blockbuster trade near the top of the order.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein (via NBA Central), the Houston Rockets and Memphis Grizzlies are in talks to send Houston’s No. 3 pick to Memphis in return for the No. 9 selection and Marcus Smart.
League insiders believe that a trade between the Rockets, who have the No. 3 pick, and the Grizzlies, who offer the No. 9 pick and Marcus Smart, is something to monitor, per @TheSteinLine
“The idea that the Rockets could trade Wednesday’s No. 3 overall pick to Memphis for No. 9… pic.twitter.com/lE4VpsnhVi
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 24, 2024
That way, the Grizzlies could go after UConn’s Donovan Clingan.
This makes sense for both parties.
While Smart seems to be a tailor-made fit in Memphis, they could benefit more from a versatile and modern big man like Clingan to pair him with Jaren Jackson Jr.
Also, that would allow Smart to be reunited with his former coach, Ime Udoka, all while revamping the Rockets’ iffy backcourt defense.
The Rockets could be an elite defensive team with Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, and Jabari Smith Jr. all on the court at the same time, and they’re reportedly looking to get back to the playoffs as early as next season.
Smart is a culture setter and a locker room leader, and he’s just what that young team needs.
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