The Grizzlies’ interest in Jakob Poeltl could bring Domantas Sabonis to the Raptors
The Memphis Grizzlies pulled off one of the biggest moves of the trading season so far sending Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. However, the Grizzlies may not be done dealing just yet. There’s still the Ja Morant issue they need to address, but the Grizzlies could potential landing spot for Toronto Raptors a great man Jakob Poeltl as the Raptors continue their trade pursuit of Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis, according to ClutchPoint’s NBA insider Brett Siegel.
In the trade with the Jazz, the Grizzlies suddenly find themselves armed with a trade exception that they can use to land Jakob Poltl from the Raptors. The Raptors would then likely step up their pursuit of Domantas Sabonis in the days leading up to the trade deadline. Toronto’s interest in Sabonis is well documented up to this point.
However, a straight deal between the Raptors and the Kings wouldn’t happen because the Kings have no interest in getting Poeltl back. That’s where the Grizzlies would come into play.
Poeltl has been sidelined recently as he continues to deal with persistent back problems. The latest update had there is no definitive timetable for his return to the court. Poeltl hasn’t played for the Raptors since Dec. 21. The No. 9 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Poeltl is a strong option at center when healthy.
He has been limited to just 21 games so far this season, just over 25 minutes per game. He averaged 9.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 69.3 percent from the field and 59.6 percent from the free throw line.
Sabonis, however, would provide the Raptors with an immediate upgrade. Sabonis has had his own injury problems, but recently returned from a knee injury. He missed 27 games before returning to the Kings lineup.
He appeared in only 18 games, for only 30 minutes per game. He averaged 15.4 points, 11.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists while shooting 54.2 percent from the field and 71.2 percent from the free throw line.
2026-02-03 20:19:00
