The Memphis Grizzlies are looking to begin their rebuilding process. Their first step is to trade the franchise's cornerstones, meaning Marc Gasol and Mike Conley.
There are several teams interested in both guys, and according to The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor, the Grizzlies' asking price for Conley will be a bit high. However, they are also expecting a trade partner that will give them what they're asking for:
The Pistons also have interest in Conley, and so did the Pacers prior to Victor Oladipo’s injury. The sense around the league has been that Memphis won’t settle for a low return for Conley, but there’s a real chance that he’ll be dealt by the deadline.
Conley would be a major upgrade for any team willing to trade for him. The 12-year veteran is averaging 20.4 points, 6.4 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals this season. He was instrumental in the Grizzlies' playoff runs between 2012-2016, but he hasn't been able to lead Memphis past the Western Conference Finals.
If the Pistons make a move for Conley, they will most likely have to give up multiple draft picks in order to get him. Still, if they believe they still have a chance of making the playoffs, then trading for him should be their priority.
As for the Pacers, the pairing of Conley and Oladipo is intriguing, and they surely need him more now that their All-Star guard is sidelined for the rest of the season. Like Detroit, draft picks plus young assets will be the starting point of any trade discussions they will be having with Memphis.
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