The Memphis Grizzlies have built a hefty chest of draft capital, focusing on the future with their young core.
While they received zero draft picks in the Ja Morant trade, the Grizzlies loaded up in other deals, earning four unprotected first-round picks by trading away Desmond Bane and three first-round picks in their deal with Utah to offload Jaren Jackson Jr.
They’ve already used a couple of the Magic’s picks, grabbing Cedric Coward, an All-Rookie First Teamer in 2025, and Karim López in the 2026 NBA Draft. But why stop getting draft picks now?
The Grizzlies earned a $28.8 million trade exception in the Jackson Jr. deal. According to James Piercey of RoundtableSports, the Grizzlies should use the opportunity to trade for a bad contract, gaining draft assets in the process. Piercey named former fourth-overall pick Patrick Williams on the list of names the Grizzlies should look into.
Patrick Williams
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – OCTOBER 17: Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles against Gradey Dick #1 of the Toronto Raptors during the first half at the United Center on October 17, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Bulls are in a sticky situation with Williams. During the 2024 offseason, Chicago jumped the gun and signed Williams to a five-year, $90 million deal. It hasn’t paid off.
Now, they are shopping around in hopes of getting off his contract and acquiring draft picks in return.
“The Bulls are trying to find a team willing to take on Patrick Williams in exchange for draft compensation,” Evan Sidery wrote in an X post on July 31.
Williams has three years remaining on a $90 million extension, which includes an $18 million player option in 2028.
Chicago is in active pursuit of Bennedict Mathurin.
It’s unlikely the Bulls could get much back, considering his current stock. The Bulls would likely have to attach picks themselves if they want to get off his contract that bad.
Why Williams Could Make Sense
Williams, 24, has drastically underperformed over his six seasons in the NBA, but maybe a change of scenery goes a long way — or at least a little.
Last season, Williams averaged 7.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. It was his worst season statistically, but he’s still relatively young.
He won’t be a franchise-altering player — that window is about gone — but being serviceable is not out of the picture.
With the TPE available to the Grizzlies, if the Bulls would attach draft capital, the Grizzlies could certainly be a player. Williams fits the current timeline at 24 years old and, with a chance to attain some picks, taking him on wouldn’t be the worst idea.
Grizzlies Could Acquire Former Top-Four Pick to Gain Assets