Should the Memphis Grizzlies explore a trade for Ben Simmons despite his playoff struggles?
The Memphis Grizzlies surprising playoff run puts them in good position when it comes to improving over the offseason. If they stand pat, they return nearly their entire roster and a healthy Jaren Jackson Jr. can help them improve. But they could also improve via trade or free agency while knowing 2022 has a much more attractive free agent class. Its hard to tell, but one star whos been mentioned around the league in potential trade talk is Ben Simmons. The Philadelphia 76ers guard drew heavy criticism in the playoffs for his shooting yet remains one of the leagues best defenders. With his average $35 million salary, it's doubtful the 76ers deal him but he's put a limit on how far they can go. It's also doubtful the Grizzlies would be interested. The case for Simmons  Simmons is a three-time All-Star, two-time All-Defensive first-team selection and a threat to get a triple-double any night. Hes one of the leagues best facilitators and can attack the rim with little problem. At 6-foot-10, hes can attack smaller guards in the post and defend multiple positions. The Grizzlies need more size with their deep roster of wings, and Simmons would help in that department. With the Grizzlies finishing seventh in defensive rating last season, Simmons upgrades that side of the floor. But its the other side where the Grizzlies should pause before thinking about a deal. The case against Simmons  Simmons isnt just a bad shooter, hes not even a willing one. Yes, he doesnt shoot 3-pointers but he set career lows in field goal attempts (10.1) and points (14.3) per game this season while shooting just 61.3% on free throws. His performance to end the Eastern Conference semifinals was as bad as any star this postseason. In the Sixers final three games, he took just 14 shots and had just three in the fourth quarter in the seven-game series against the Atlanta Hawks. For the postseason, he shot 34.2% on free throws, the worst in a single playoffs in league history. Simmons also would hinder Morants growth being another ball-dominant guard. After last postseason, Morant needs players wholl help elevate his game, not hold him back. The Grizzlies needs scorers and shooters to improve on the offensive ends and Simmons doesnt fit either of those categories. Simmons made $30.6 million last season, the first of his five-year, $177 million contract. So any deal the Grizzlies offer will command a significant return to match salary, and theyre in a tough spot with mostly team-friendly contracts. Assuming Morant and Jackson are off limits, any package would include both first-round picks in 2022 and Dillon Brooks, who is owed $12.2 million next season. Kyle Anderson ($9.9 million) could also be considered given hes a free agent after next year. Thats just a start since the 76ers would demand more for their second-best player. Its a steep price for an offensively-challenged player. Plus, the Grizzlies cap situation gets tougher the next 12 months. Jackson is eligible for a contract extension this offseason and Morant will likely command a maximum extension in 2022. Both deals could each exceed $15 million a year, with Morant easily approaching over $20 million. Yes, Anderson, Jonas Valanciunas and Tyus Jones are free agents in 2022. But those two upcoming extensions mean the Grizzlies must be prudent in trading for another star. It has to be someone who improves their weaknesses, not just a big name. Thats why the verdict is simple: Simmons isnt worth the risk on the court or financially and its why the Grizzlies wont look at him to upgrade things. A Commercial Appeal subscription gets you unlimited access to the best inside information and updates on local sports, and the ability to tap into sports news from throughout the USA TODAY Network's 109 local sites. You can reach Evan Barnes on Twitter (@Evan_B) or by email at evan.barnes@commercialappeal.com