SUNS, GRIZZLIES SWAP SIX ASSETS
The Memphis Grizzlies acquired forward/guard Josh Jackson, guard De'Anthony Melton, a second-round draft pick in 2020 and a conditional second-round draft pick in 2021 from the Phoenix Suns for guard Jevon Carter and forward/guard Kyle Korver.
What does it give the Memphis Grizzlies
This is a good deal for the Grizzlies, who add two talented young players who could be part of the rotation in 2019-20. Jackson has had some issues since turning pro but he is a versatile athlete capable of playing three positions on the floor. Melton is a capable point guard who will compete for playing time behind 2019 first-rounder Ja Morant. The addition of two more potential second-round picks in this deal is gravy.
What does it give the Phoenix Suns
Overall, this trade is a bit of a puzzler from the Suns' perspective. Carter is being brought in as a backup point guard but at BEST he is Melton's equal. Also, there are no guarantees that Carter will even be part of the Phoenix rotation in 2019-20. The Suns were mainly motivated to send Jackson somewhere (anywhere), so they added a couple of picks to sweeten the deal. Korver was included in the trade but he will be waived by Phoenix.
Fantasy impact
Jackson has a chance to redeem himself in Memphis, provided he starts taking his NBA career more seriously. Joining a team with both great youth and great leadership should help him. For fantasy purposes, he is a late-round draft gamble right now (but one that could pay out in the end). Melton and Carter remain backups with their respective new teams, so neither should be drafted this year. Korver is nearly at the end of the road.
Player focus
Memphis Grizzlies
a conditional second-round draft pick in 2021
a second-round draft pick in 2020