The Memphis Grizzlies are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season with high hopes of securing a top seed in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. After a disappointing eighth-place finish last season and a first-round playoff sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Grizzlies are poised to rebound behind their dynamic core of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
Memphis made waves this offseason with strategic roster moves to bolster their lineup. They selected Cedric Coward with the 11th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and added veteran depth by signing Ty Jerome and Jock Landale in free agency. In a blockbuster trade, the Grizzlies sent sharpshooter Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, acquiring Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and draft capital in return. These moves signal Memphis’ intent to build a versatile and competitive roster, but they may not be done yet, with the trade deadline looming as an opportunity for further upgrades.
One glaring need for the Grizzlies is 3-point shooting, especially after parting ways with Bane. Enter Boston Celtics forward Sam Hauser, a 27-year-old marksman who has emerged as a potential trade target. The Celtics, looking to manage their salary cap after a busy offseason, could be open to moving Hauser, whose $45 million contract over the next few years makes him an attractive asset for teams like Memphis.
In a proposed mock trade, the Grizzlies could offer John Konchar, Jock Landale, and draft capital to Boston in exchange for Hauser. This deal would provide Memphis with a reliable 3-point threat who can thrive either as a starter or off the bench. Last season, Hauser averaged 8.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game while shooting an impressive 45.1% from the field and 41.6% from beyond the arc in 71 games with the Celtics. His shooting prowess and rebounding ability would add valuable wing depth to complement Morant and Jackson Jr., enhancing Memphis’ offensive firepower.
Hauser’s skill set aligns perfectly with the Grizzlies’ needs. His elite 3-point shooting would stretch the floor, creating more space for Morant’s explosive drives and Jackson Jr.’s versatile scoring. Additionally, Hauser’s ability to contribute as a rebounder and defender makes him a well-rounded addition to a team aiming to compete with the West’s heavyweights. Whether slotted into the starting lineup or providing a spark off the bench, Hauser could elevate Memphis’ offense and help them climb the standings.
However, prying Hauser away from Boston won’t be easy. The Celtics have valued his contributions off the bench over his four NBA seasons, and his role in their rotation makes him a key piece for a contending team. Even if Boston considers moving him to shed salary, other teams may outbid the Grizzlies with more enticing offers. Memphis will need to weigh the cost of parting with Konchar, Landale, and draft picks against the potential impact Hauser could bring.
As the Grizzlies aim to build on last season’s performance and challenge for a top seed in the loaded Western Conference, adding a sharpshooter like Sam Hauser could be a game-changer. With Morant and Jackson Jr. leading the charge, and new additions like Caldwell-Pope and Coward in the mix, Memphis is poised for a breakout campaign. If they can land Hauser before the trade deadline, the Grizzlies could solidify their status as a serious contender in the West.