CLIPS GET GREEN, MOVE STEPHENSON TO MEMPHIS
The Memphis Grizzlies acquired guard-forward Lance Stephenson and future 1st-round draft pick from the Los Angeles Clippers for combo forward Jeff Green.
What does it give the Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies recently traded away Courtney Lee, and Stephenson can be his replacement in Memphis' rotation. Stephenson has the talent to eventually be an upgrade, but his notable history of on-court antics and off-court trouble make him a high-risk, high-reward option. Adding to the risk: he has one year more than Green on his contract (Green's deal is expiring), so the Grizzlies clearly hope he can help them this year and / or next. That said, clearly the motivation for the Grizz is the future first-round draft pick they get in the deal.
What does it give the Los Angeles Clippers
The Clips are blessed with one of the NBA's better cores but this season has been a trial for L.A. in terms of chemistry and injuries. Enter Green, a quality veteran who can step into the rotation right away. He does a little of everything well, and has the ability to start for L.A. until Blake Griffin gets back from injury. Giving up a future first-round pick for a rental player is a steep price, but the Clips look determined to make noise in the postseason. Plus, they free up salary this summer with Green's deal ending (which wasn't the case with Stephenson).
Fantasy impact
Green and Stephenson should both benefit fantasy-wise from this trade, but it's anyone's guess how many minutes the Grizzlies have in mind for Stephenson. Don't add him just yet in fantasy leagues, as this is clearly a 'wait-and-see' situation. Green's value likely stays similar fantasy-wise, since his role with the Clippers will likely be identical to the one he had with Memphis (i.e., as the top forward off his team's bench). Any fantasy value Luc Mbah a Moute had with the Clips now likely evaporates.
