The Memphis Grizzlies made a headline trade by sending Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, shaking up the ongoing trade season. Despite this significant move, the Grizzlies may still be in the market to make more deals, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding Ja Morant. Importantly, Memphis could play a crucial role by becoming the temporary home for Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl, as Toronto aims to acquire Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis, according to NBA insider Brett Siegel.
How the Grizzlies Could Facilitate the Raptors’ Trade Ambitions
Following the trade with Utah, the Grizzlies gained a trade exception that might enable them to acquire Jakob Poeltl from Toronto. This setup would allow the Raptors to intensify their effort to bring in Sabonis before the trade deadline. Toronto’s pursuit of Sabonis has been widely reported, but Sacramento is reportedly uninterested in taking Poeltl in return, complicating a direct swap.
Poeltl’s Injury Status and Playing History
Jakob Poeltl has been sidelined recently due to persistent back problems and has not played for the Raptors since December 21. Without a clear timeline for his return, his health remains a concern. Selected ninth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Poeltl has proven to be a reliable center when healthy but has only appeared in 21 games this season, averaging just over 25 minutes per contest. His statistics include 9.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 69.3 percent and free-throw accuracy near 59.6 percent.
Domantas Sabonis’ Impact and Recent Return from Injury
Domantas Sabonis would offer the Raptors an immediate boost as a dependable inside presence. Like Poeltl, Sabonis has dealt with injuries, missing 27 games due to a knee issue before recently returning to play for the Kings. Since his comeback, he has played 18 games, logging roughly 30 minutes each night, and is averaging 15.4 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. He shoots 54.2 percent from the field and has a free-throw percentage of 71.2, demonstrating his effectiveness when on the court.
Significance of Potential Trade and What to Expect Next
This potential three-way involvement—with the Grizzlies bridging the gap between the Raptors and Kings—reflects the complexity and stakes of the Domantas Sabonis trade rumors. Should this move materialize, it would reshape Toronto’s roster and signal a strong commitment to contention. Meanwhile, Memphis could benefit by acquiring a proven center in Poeltl to fill gaps following Jackson’s departure and ongoing questions around Morant’s future. As the trade deadline nears, all eyes will remain on these teams to see if this multi-faceted strategy unfolds.
All of a sudden, the Grizzlies have emerged as a potential suitor for Raptors center Jakob Poeltl as Toronto continues to pursue Kings star Domanats Sabonis, league sources told @ClutchPoints.
Memphis just created a TPE from this Jackson trade they can use for Poeltl.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) February 3, 2026
