Memphis Making a Monster Move for Edwards?
Word out of league circles suggests the Memphis Grizzlies are quietly exploring avenues to make a seismic move. And when you hear the name being whispered, it certainly raises eyebrows: Anthony Edwards. Yes, that Anthony Edwards. The Minnesota Timberwolves star, who just dropped 44 points against the Phoenix Suns in a recent playoff game, is reportedly a target if the Wolves hit a wall in their current trajectory.
Now, before anyone loses their mind, this isn't a done deal, not by a long shot. But the Grizzlies, with a healthy Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., are looking for that third superstar. They've been aggressive in the past, and Ant-Man would represent a true swing for the fences. Think about it: Morant driving, Jackson protecting the rim, and Edwards creating his own shot from anywhere. That's a scary proposition for the rest of the Western Conference.
The Tactical Fit: A Three-Headed Monster
Let's talk pure basketball. Edwards, who averaged 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists this past season, would slot in perfectly as a two-way wing. He's got the athleticism to run with Morant in transition and the defensive chops to guard multiple positions. Memphis has always prided itself on its grit-and-grind identity, and Edwards embodies that spirit with his relentless attack and competitive fire.
The biggest question, of course, is shot distribution. Morant is a high-usage guard, and Edwards thrives with the ball in his hands. But Edwards has shown a willingness to play off-ball, hitting 35.7% from three-point range last season. He could feast on open looks created by Morant's drives. Imagine a pick-and-roll with Morant and Jackson, with Edwards spotting up on the wing. Or Edwards running a secondary action while Morant rests. The offensive versatility would be off the charts. Defensively, a lineup of Morant, Edwards, Desmond Bane, Jackson, and a solid center like Steven Adams (if healthy) would be suffocating. Bane, an excellent three-point shooter at 40.8% last year, would provide vital spacing.
Real talk: Morant, Edwards, and Jackson Jr. would form arguably the most athletic, dynamic trio in the league. Edwards isn't just a scorer; his playmaking has improved significantly, as evidenced by his career-high assist numbers. He could take pressure off Morant in terms of creating offense every possession, allowing Ja to pick his spots more effectively.
Financial Gymnastics and Trade Scenarios
Here's where it gets complicated. Edwards signed a five-year, $205.9 million designated rookie extension with the Timberwolves last summer, which kicks in next season. That's a hefty contract. For the Grizzlies to acquire him, they'd need to send out significant salary and assets. Think multiple first-round picks, potentially a young player like Ziaire Williams or Brandon Clarke, and salary fillers like Luke Kennard's $14.7 million option. It would gut their depth, no doubt about it.
A hypothetical package might involve multiple unprotected first-round picks, a pick swap, and a young prospect. This isn't a simple swap. Minnesota would demand a king's ransom, as they should for a player of Edwards' caliber. They're not just giving away a face of the franchise. It would be a true rebuild for the Wolves, likely centered around Rudy Gobert's massive contract and whatever picks they could acquire. This would be a massive financial commitment for Memphis, pushing them deep into the luxury tax for years to come, but that's the price you pay for championship contention.
Compare this to the Kevin Durant trade to the Suns, where Phoenix sent out Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, four unprotected first-round picks, and a pick swap. Edwards isn't quite Durant's level of established greatness, but he's younger and on a longer contract. The price for Edwards would likely be similar, if not higher, in terms of draft capital because of his age and potential.
Impact on Both Sides of the Deal
For the Grizzlies, this is an all-in move. It signals their intention to compete for a title right now. A healthy Morant, Edwards, and Jackson Jr. core would immediately elevate them into the top tier of contenders. It's a gamble, given the draft capital they'd surrender, but the reward could be immense. They'd have three players who can take over a game, something few teams possess.
For the Timberwolves, this would be a difficult pill to swallow. Trading Edwards would mean admitting their current roster construction isn't working and hitting the reset button. But if they believe their ceiling with the current group is limited, getting a haul of picks and young talent could accelerate a future rebuild. It would be a tough sell to the fanbase, especially after Edwards' incredible playoff performances. They'd likely try to build around Karl-Anthony Towns or Rudy Gobert, but the direction would be clear: tear it down and start over. Thing is, sometimes you have to make tough decisions to avoid mediocrity.
Here's my hot take: if the Timberwolves don't make a deep playoff run this year, say beyond the second round, the noise around an Edwards trade will only intensify. They've invested heavily, and if it's not yielding results, a star like Edwards might seek a new challenge.
Bold Prediction: While a deal for Edwards is complicated and expensive, the Grizzlies will make a serious push for a third star this summer, and if Minnesota falters in the playoffs, Memphis will be at the front of the line with an irresistible offer that includes multiple unprotected first-round picks and a promising young player like Ziaire Williams.