Memphis Grizzlies: Norman Powell
What an impressive season it was for a young Memphis Grizzlies team this season. Despite having a roster led by quite a few younger players, the Grizzlies advanced to the playoffs after winning two play-in tournament games.
While Memphis was eliminated in the first round, they are an organization heading in the right direction. Among the needs that the Grizzlies need to address, they need more reliability at the shooting guard position. Norman Powell would be an ideal wing player for Memphis, giving them versatility and shooting.
Powell has a player option with the Portland Trail Blazers this offseason, but it’s unlikely he accepts it as he’s expected to get a nice raise in free agency.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Lauri Markkanen
Back in the 2017 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected Markkanen with the No. 7 overall pick. Of course, Markkanen was part of the trade that sent Zach LaVine from Minnesota to Chicago. But maybe there is a scenario this offseas where Markannen heads to the team that originally drafted him.
The Timberwolves could benefit from adding a stretch four that could space the floor alongside Karl-Anthony Towns. A starting lineup of D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, Anthony Edwards, Markkanen, and Towns (or something similar) could be enough to put Minnesota in a position to fight for a playoff spot next season.
New Orleans Pelicans: Lonzo Ball
There are a handful of notable point guards that are impending free agents this summer and the rumors of who could go where have been flying around the NBA. But after most of them either re-sign with their current teams or other contenders, Lonzo Ball becomes one of the most intriguing point guards available.
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That is unless the New Orleans Pelicans elect to retain Ball. Ball has become a much-improved shooter in recent seasons and letting him walk would be a mistake for New Orleans as they’d need to find a viable replacement. Keeping their young trio of Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Zion Williamson intact should be a priority for the Pelicans this offseason.
