This Raptors-Grizzlies trade gets Goran Dragic to Memphis

Once the Toronto Raptors get their COVID-19 situation under control, they will need to figure out what they should do with deactivated point guard Goran Dragic. The Slovenian veteran is currently away from the team due to a personal matter, meaning we may have seen the last of him in a Raptors uniform.

Dragic has been open about his desire to play for a championship contender, with the thought of joining Luka Doncic in Dallas appealing to him. If the Mavericks aren’t interested, perhaps one of their division rivals could take the Raptors up on their offer and acquire Dragic.

Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies have built a surprisingly deep team that is capable of making the postseason in the crowded Western Conference. A bench being led by players like De’Anthony Melton could still stand to get a little better, and Dragic would provide the offensive punch this team needs.

If the Raptors can strike a deal with Memphis, Toronto could get some coveted draft capital and bench depth while the Grizzlies add a veteran with years of postseason experience that could help this young team in the postseason.

This Raptors-Grizzlies trade helps Goran Dragic land in Memphis.

The Grizzlies have three first-round picks this season, meaning that they could start wheeling and dealing in order to bring in a player that could change the scope of their bench. As solid as Tyus Jones has been, Dragic represents an offensive upgrade that could provide stability for this collection of youngsters.

Anderson had the best year of his career in 2020-21, averaging 12.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while starting 69 games. A free agent at the end of this season, Anderson has been relegated to a backup role while averaging just 8.3 points per game.

The Raptors may view this as taking on an expiring contract to beef up the bench, but he could stick around for 2022 and beyond. A smooth operator at 6-9 with a solid 3-point shot and defensive versatility, Anderson’s style of play is very similar to a lot of the versatile forwards Toronto has invested resources in.

Culver is starting to move into bust territory, as the former No. 6 overall pick is struggling to get on the floor in Memphis after failing in Minnesota. Still, he profiles as a quality shooter with plus athleticism. The Raptors will take chances on all sorts of players, and Culver’s potential if he ends up blossoming is very tempting.

Despite a very sluggish start to the season, Dragic will get some suitors due to his experience in the pros and quality on the offensive end. Memphis would do well to part with some role players to add Goran.