The Memphis Grizzlies made some massive moves this offseason, but none bigger than trading for 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart from the Boston Celtics. There is no knowing just how the Grizzlies‘ season will turn out, especially with Ja Morant out for the first 25 games of the season due to a league-imposed suspension. Still, there is still a trade target that could help keep Memphis afloat until Morant returns — and that is Toronto Raptors star Pascal Siakam.

Smart is a great addition to this squad as he brings his toughness and gives Memphis a veteran presence that can help teach this young team how to win. Nonetheless, it feels like the Grizzlies are still perhaps one more piece away from becoming legitimate championship contenders. Bleacher Report recently released an article suggesting Memphis should target and trade for Pascal Siakam. Siakam might just be that missing piece the Grizzlies need.

Grizzlies trade target: Pascal Siakam

As seen in the Bleacher Report piece, the Grizzlies land Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Luke Kennard, Brandon Clarke, Ziaire Williams, a 2024 first-round pick (via the Warriors), a 2025 unprotected first-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick (top-8 protected), and a 2028 first-round pick swap.

That looks like a massive package for the All-Star forward. The Grizzlies lose three first round picks in addition to a pick swap in 2028. They also let go of some rotation players that added to the depth that this squad has boasted over the last couple of seasons.

Nonetheless, this deal is worth it because Siakam will elevate the Grizzlies into title contender status. Just imagine Memphis trotting out a starting five of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, Pascal Siakam, and Jaren Jackson Jr. That is going to be a defensive dynamo. Siakam's addition along with Smart will only make Memphis' top three rated defense better and that is going to be scary for opposing offenses across the league.

With Siakam, the Grizzlies not only improve their already elite defense, they also get an elite offensive talent. This past season with the Raptors, Siakam averaged a career-high 24.2 points per game to go along with 7.8 rebounds and a similarly career-best 5.8 assists per contest.

The 29-year-old has developed a well-rounded offensive game with an ability to score from the inside and even out to the perimeter. Albeit a career 32.4 percent three-point shooter, Siakam is still capable of stretching out as a threat beyond the arc. He is also a solid fit next to Jaren Jackson Jr. in the front court, as the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year is also capable of shooting from three. Aside from his scoring, the Cameroonian has also developed into a solid playmaker during his time with the Raptors.

However, Siakam reportedly does not want to leave Toronto. The two-time All-Star reportedly has no intentions to sign a long-term contract extension with whichever team acquires him, which could sway away teams from trading for him. Still, this move makes sense for Siakam as well, since it will give him a chance to compete for a championship.

As for the Raptors, this might not be the best haul they can get for a player of Siakam's caliber. While they get a boatload of picks in this deal, none of the three players included in the hypothetical deal are future franchise stars.

If Memphis is able to pull off this trade for Siakam, they should instantly insert themselves among the favorites in the Western Conference.