The Memphis Grizzlies may have just played their way into a pivotal role ahead of the trade deadline. Thanks to a recent deal with the Utah Jazz, Memphis now holds a trade exception that could open the door to acquiring Raptors center Jakob Poeltl-setting off a domino effect that could reshape multiple frontcourts across the league.
Here’s where things get interesting: Toronto has been eyeing Domantas Sabonis, and not quietly. The Raptors’ interest in the Kings big man has been circulating for a while now, and with the deadline looming, the urgency is only going to increase.
But a direct swap between Toronto and Sacramento isn’t in the cards-Sacramento reportedly has no interest in taking Jakob Poeltl back in return. That’s where Memphis enters the picture.
The Grizzlies, armed with that trade exception, could absorb Poeltl’s contract, essentially acting as a third team to facilitate a potential Sabonis-to-Toronto move. It’s the kind of layered, chessboard maneuvering that tends to define trade season.
Now, let’s talk about the players involved.
Jakob Poeltl has been on the shelf since December 21, battling ongoing back issues. There’s still no clear timetable for his return, which is a concern for any team thinking about adding him.
But when healthy, Poeltl is a reliable interior presence. He’s played in just 21 games this season, averaging 9.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in a little over 25 minutes per game.
His efficiency remains a calling card-he’s shooting nearly 70% from the field. The free-throw line?
That’s another story, with a sub-60% mark that continues to limit his late-game utility. Still, for a team like Memphis looking to shore up its size and rim protection, he’s a compelling option-if he can get back on the floor.
As for Sabonis, his return from a knee injury has been a welcome sight for the Kings. He missed 27 games but has recently rejoined the lineup, and while he’s still ramping up, the numbers are solid.
In 18 games, he’s logging about 30 minutes per night and putting up 15.4 points, 11.2 boards, and 4.2 assists. His shooting splits-54.2% from the field and 71.2% from the line-are right in line with his career norms.
He’s not just a scorer or a rebounder; he’s a connector, a high-post facilitator who can elevate an offense with his vision and feel.
For the Raptors, Sabonis would be a significant upgrade-a versatile, playmaking big who fits well alongside their existing core. If they can pull this off, it’s a move that signals a clear intent to compete now. And for the Kings, moving off Sabonis would be a major shift, but if the return is right, it could be a reset that sets them up for the future.
The Grizzlies, meanwhile, are in a unique position. They’re not just looking to improve their own roster-they could be the swing team that helps two others reshape theirs.
With Poeltl’s health in question and Sabonis just getting back into rhythm, there’s risk all around. But as the deadline approaches, this is the kind of multilayered deal that could come together quickly-and change the landscape in the process.