Tyus Jones trade rumors intensify as the Memphis Grizzlies approach NBA draft
Reports that Memphis Grizzlies point guard Tyus Jones could be on the move this offseason continue to intensify as the 2023 NBA draft approaches.
The Grizzlies, according to Yahoo! Sports NBA reporter Jake Fischer, are "exploring trade opportunities to help Jones land a full-time starting position elsewhere." This comes on the heels of a report from The Action Network's Matt Moore, who declared Jones a player he expected to be on a new team by the end of the summer.
Jones is entering the final season of a two-year, $30-million contract he signed last offseason, and could be a key piece as Memphis pursues an upgrade at small forward given the expected departure of Dillon Brooks via free agency. But the announcement last week of Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension complicates matters.
MORE RUMBLINGS: Memphis Grizzlies one of the contenders linked to Golden State's Draymond Green
ROUNDTABLE: Will Ja Morant appeal his 25-game NBA suspension? Why there's risk that could be worth it
Jones started in 22 games last season and averaged 16.4 points and 8.1 assists in those appearances. The Grizzlies have a 32-13 record with Jones in the starting lineup the past two years.
The Brooklyn Nets, Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers are all teams that have been mentioned as potentially needing a point guard this offseason, while also having depth at the wing Memphis might be interested in acquiring.
Reach sports reporter Jerry Jiang at JJiang@gannett.com or on Twitter @j_jiang30
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Tyus Jones trade rumors intensify as Memphis Grizzlies near NBA draft
