The Memphis Grizzlies recently pulled off a major trade, sending Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four first-round picks, and a future pick swap.
One of those first-round picks is a 2026 selection from the Phoenix Suns—an appealing asset, especially given Phoenix’s uncertain future as they explore trading Kevin Durant. While the pick is subject to swap rights with the Washington Wizards, protections on the Wizards’ side make it unlikely to transfer.
The inclusion of the Suns’ pick sparked speculation around the league that Memphis might be trying to position itself to make a move for Durant. Phoenix is reportedly eager to reclaim some of its future draft capital, and there were reports that the Grizzlies showed interest in Durant at the trade deadline.
However, according to Grizzlies beat writer Damichael Cole, that’s not the case now. He stated, “Per sources: The Grizzlies are not interested in trading for Kevin Durant. They contemplated an offer at the trade deadline, but they haven’t and don’t intend to engage on a trade for Durant this offseason.”
Memphis has been on the hunt for a wing for a while, having been linked to players like OG Anunoby, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Mikal Bridges, but none of those deals came to fruition. Durant, while talented, doesn’t align with the Grizzlies’ young core, and the team reportedly prefers to maintain long-term financial flexibility.
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