The Memphis Grizzlies have made a significant move, trading their 2021 lottery pick Ziaire Williams to the Brooklyn Nets, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. This trade has sparked a lot of debate among fans and analysts, with many wondering who ultimately got the better end of the deal.
In return for Williams, the Grizzlies are clearing some salary cap space as they look to re-sign Luke Kennard. They are also sending a 2030 second-round pick (via Dallas) to Brooklyn. In exchange, Memphis will receive Mamadi Diakite and the draft rights to Serbian Nemanja Dangubic, a second-round selection from 2014.
Williams, who is just 22 years old, has shown potential as a defender but has struggled with guarding the 3-point line. He is known for his impressive size, athleticism, and ability to finish around the rim. However, his shot selection has been a point of concern, with over half of his career attempts coming from beyond the arc.
Despite his shortcomings, Williams is coming off his best NBA season, averaging 8.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in just 51 games. He also achieved his first double-double and set career highs in both points (27) and rebounds (10) in a single game. With a shooting percentage of 39.7/30.7/82.7%, Williams will be making $6.1 million in the final year of his rookie deal.
On the other side of the trade, Mamadi Diakite, a 27-year-old forward, has had limited playing time since going undrafted out of Virginia in 2020. He has appeared in 55 total games for multiple teams and will be making $2.2 million this season. As for Nemanja Dangubic, the 31-year-old Serbian guard has yet to sign an NBA contract despite being a 2014 draft pick. This will be the third time his draft rights have been moved, and he most recently played for Peristeri BC in Greece.
The trade has received mixed reviews, with both the Nets and Grizzlies receiving a grade of B. However, there is potential for both teams to come out as winners in the long run, with the opportunity for the Grizzlies to potentially elevate their grade to an A. Only time will tell how this trade will ultimately impact both franchises.
