Memphis Grizzlies discussing deals to trade Ziaire Williams | Report

The Memphis Grizzlies could be looking to part ways with a former lottery pick. According to a report from The Athletic, the Grizzlies have been discussing deals to move forward Ziaire Williams.

Williams, drafted No. 10 in 2021, has spent his first three seasons in Memphis. That tenure has been filled with injuries and playing inconsistencies that have resulted in him going from playing starter minutes to even spending time with the G League Memphis Hustle.

After shooting 45% as a rookie, Williams shot a career low 39.7% in his third season while playing 51 games. The 6-foot-9 forward's defensive upside has been a key component to his playing time, but his offensive game hasn't developed much to date.

Williams will have a cap hit of $6.1 million this season before heading into restricted free agency in 2025. If Memphis re-signs guard Luke Kennard, it will become a tax team and be hovering close to the first apron.

Memphis currently has a logjam on the wing that was only increased when the team drafted forward Jaylen Wells in the 2024 NBA draft and signed him to a standard contract. Between Williams, Wells, John Konchar, Desmond Bane, Vince Williams Jr., GG Jackson and Jake LaRavia, there won't be too many minutes to spare for everyone.

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Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.