GASOL GOES TO TORONTO!
The Toronto Raptors acquired center Marc Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies for center Jonas Valanciunas, guard Delon Wright, forward/guard CJ Miles and a second-round draft pick in 2024.
What does it give the Toronto Raptors
For Toronto, adding Gasol here is a clear statement to the rest of the Eastern Conference: it is time to win now! The veteran center can stretch defenses with his outside shot, yet is also one of the top big men in the NBA. Of course, it is a major gamble for the Raptors because Gasol can become a free agent this summer. However, gambling appears to be in Toronto's DNA these days (see Leonard, Kawhi).
What does it give the Memphis Grizzlies
For Memphis, adding Valanciunas to replace Gasol at center is a big part of this trade. The Lithuanian is seven years younger than Gasol, which is huge for the rebuilding Grizzlies. He is not as complete as a center as his Spanish counterpart, but Valanciunas has time to improve his all-around game in Memphis. Wright and Miles may also help the Grizzlies, while the second rounder will eventually add another asset.
Fantasy impact
This deal helps the new Grizzlies players a lot. All should see more playing time with Memphis than they were getting in Toronto. As for Gasol, he will play second-fiddle to Leonard for as long as both are Raptors, but his numbers in Toronto should not suffer too badly.
