Memphis opens a needed roster spot and gains flexibility

The Memphis Grizzlies announced Tuesday that they are releasing newly acquired big man Mamadi Diakite. The move gives the team a new free roster spot as the 2024-25 NBA season looms.

Diakite’s background

Diakite, 27, was acquired by the Grizzlies alongside the draft rights of Nemanja Dangubic from the Brooklyn Nets. The deal meant the departure of Ziaire Williams and a 2030 second-round draft pick via the Dallas Mavericks. This trade back in July served significant for the team in salary shedding purposes to retain the service of Luke Kennard via a one-year, $11 million pact.

A league journeyman, Diakite has played for four different teams since he entered the NBA in 2021. He holds a career average of 3.1 points and 2.3 boards in 9.6 minutes across 55 games.

A wise decision for flexibility

The waiving of Diakite offers flexibility for the Grizzlies heading to the new season. As the big man isn't expected to play that much within the group’s loaded frontcourt, removing him from the roster benefits Memphis by potentially adding a better contributor or evading the luxury tax.

With Mamadi’s departure, the Grizzlies have 14 players on standard contract and three on two-way deals. Depending on their needs and other circumstances, the ball is in the hands of Memphis to bring in a new player as the season unfolds via free agency or trade.

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