Los Angeles Lakers: 3 small forward trade candidates
By Ethan Temkin
3.) Jae Crowder
Given how reluctant the Memphis Grizzlies have been about buying out Andre Igoudala, the Lakers should turn their attention to Jae Crowder, who would be just as good of an acquisition for them.
The Grizzlies are currently 9th in the Western Conference with a 16-22 record, and even though they are currently two games back behind the eighth seed, the team should be proactive in getting one more lottery talent to pair with Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Brandon Clarke instead of what is more than likely going to be a first-round exit.
Enter Crowder, who is probably their most sought after asset for a variety of reasons, such as the fact that he is on an expiring deal at only $7.8 million, plays a position of need in the NBA and can slide up in position for small-ball lineups.
With the Grizzlies, Crowder has gotten back to the level of production he had back in Boston, averaging 10.7 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists. His shooting numbers leave a lot to be desired, at 38/30/77, but his effort and hustle on the defensive end still make him a valuable player to have on the floor.
A package centered around Kentavious Caldwell-Pope would work money-wise, and the Grizzlies might be interested in such a deal since Caldwell-Pope is younger than Crowder, and is a perfect fit next to Ja Morant.