Grizzlies Acquire Brewer from Jazz

In a deal that came together minutes before the 3 PM trade deadline this afternoon, the Grizzlies traded a protected 2010 first-round draft pick to the Utah Jazz for guard Ronnie Brewer. Brewer, the Jazz 2006 first-round pick out of Arkansas, is set to make $2.7 million this season and will become a restricted free agent after this season.

What does this trade mean for the Grizzlies, then? In my opinion, it's huge. Brewer adds firepower to a very thin Grizzlies bench that has been disappointing for most of the season. He is currently averaging 9.5 points-per-game while shooting just below 50% from the field goal. His slasher style of play definitely conforms to that of the rest of the Grizzlies (one that is last in the NBA in unassisted shots). Additionally, Brewer will be an attractive local draw since he played college ball at nearby Arkansas.

It is too early to tell exactly how Brewer will fit into the Grizzlies' rotation, but I imagine he will immediately become the leader in bench points and minutes. Also, he could easily spell Rudy Gay or OJ Mayo in the starting lineup if (God forbid) either were injured. I applaud the Memphis front office for having the guts to make a trade (even at the eleventh hour) and take steps to improve what has been a woefully underperforming bench.

Go Ronnie and go Grizz!

Owen