The Memphis Grizzlies faced a turbulent offseason that reshaped their entire identity. While hiring Tuomas Iisalo to replace former head coach Taylor Jenkins marked a new direction, their most shocking move came when they traded star guard Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in June.
The blockbuster deal brought Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks, and a future pick to Memphis. This massive haul gave the Grizzlies championship-level defense, backcourt depth, and a treasure trove of draft capital. However, it also left them searching for answers at the wing position Bane once dominated.
Do the Memphis Grizzlies Need a Third Star Player Alongside Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.?
Despite parting ways with a cornerstone player like Bane, the Grizzlies remain optimistic about their 2025-26 campaign. Building around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. gives them a proven playoff foundation. These two stars have already shown they can compete at the highest level.
However, Memphis might need that missing piece to make a legitimate championship push. The Western Conference remains loaded with talent, and depth alone may not be enough for a deep postseason run.
Sports Illustrated’s Ethen Hutton believes the Grizzlies should pursue Toronto Raptors wing RJ Barrett. According to Hutton, the Raptors would receive Brandon Clarke, John Konchar, Vince Williams Jr., a 2029 first-round pick (via the Magic), a 2027 second-round pick (via the Atlanta Hawks), and a 2028 second-round pick (via the Sacramento Kings). Memphis would land Barrett and a 2026 second-round pick (via the Los Angeles Lakers).
Barrett brings exactly what Memphis lost in the Bane trade. Signed to a four-year, $107 million contract, he could provide Morant with the reliable third star this team desperately needs. The New York Knicks selected him third overall in 2019, and he joined the Raptors in 2024. Last season, he averaged 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game.
In Year 7, RJ Barrett’s mindset is simple: Competitiveness. Discipline. Intensity.
Catch how he is preparing for this season on ‘No Days Off’ presented by @onepeloton
➡️ https://t.co/dvqlCngHtq pic.twitter.com/mTjSkrKNZr
— NBA (@NBA) September 11, 2025
Barrett has drawn interest from multiple contenders, including the Portland Trail Blazers and Chicago Bulls. His combination of size, scoring ability, and playoff experience makes him an attractive target for teams looking to add a proven wing.
The glaring need for Memphis lies exactly where Bane’s departure created a void. While Morant can carry the offensive load, having a third reliable scorer would significantly boost their championship aspirations. The Western Conference demands depth and talent at every position.
“In this trade, the Memphis Grizzlies fill a massive need on the wing with the addition of a 3-and-D threat in Barrett. The Grizzlies are without notable wing help after trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic back in June,” Hutton wrote.
Is Barrett the Right Fit for the Grizzlies?
However, Barrett may not be the perfect solution Memphis needs right away. The team could benefit more from a veteran with championship experience, someone who can lead the locker room alongside Morant and first-year coach Iisalo.
Memphis already has Caldwell-Pope anchoring the wing defensively. His championship pedigree and two-way impact could be sufficient if Morant and Jackson remain healthy throughout the 2025-26 season. Adding another wing might be redundant when other needs exist.
Barrett’s contract also presents financial complications. The team would shed multiple valuable picks to accommodate the remaining two years of his $107 million deal. Not only would they sacrifice future flexibility, but they’d also lose several rotation players who provide crucial depth.
Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. come up in the clutch for the @memgrizz!
🐻 Ja: 29p (15 in 4Q), 8a, 4r, 2s, Forced OT
🐻 JJJ: 28p, 6r, 2b, 11-13 shooting pic.twitter.com/AGqzNXFhNZ
— NBA (@NBA) February 26, 2025
That said, Barrett could still provide value to the Grizzlies if they can structure a deal that preserves their key role players. His scoring ability and versatility would give Iisalo another weapon to deploy in crucial moments.
Following their disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder last season, Memphis faces critical decisions. The Grizzlies will begin their 2025-26 preseason with a clash against the Detroit Pistons on October 6, looking to prove they can compete without their former star.
