Pacers Bolster Frontcourt, Acquire Jay Huff in Trade with Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to trade center Jay Huff to the Indiana Pacers, according to sources at ESPN. In exchange, the Grizzlies will receive a second-round pick and a second-round pick swap from the Pacers.

Huff, who will be 27 in August, recently secured his first standard NBA contract after a noteworthy performance in Memphis. Over the past season, the stretch-5 player averaged nearly seven points, shooting 40% from 3-point range on 3.1 attempts in just under 12 minutes per game for the Grizzlies.

The Indiana Pacers are aiming to strengthen their frontcourt following the departure of their long-time starting center, Myles Turner, who joined the Milwaukee Bucks as a free agent. Huff possesses a similar skill set to Turner, known for his ability to stretch the floor as a shooter and protect the rim.

Last season, Huff was among the select few 7-footers to achieve a 40% 3-point shooting accuracy while attempting a minimum of 200 shots. Other players with that record are Karl-Anthony Towns and Kristaps Porzingis. According to GeniusIQ, Huff also ranked 24th in field goal percentage allowed on layups and dunks among 90 players who contested at least 300 shots.

Huff recorded an average of 2.7 blocks per 36 minutes while playing for Memphis. In 2023, he was recognized as the G League's Defensive Player of the Year. He is currently under contract until 2027-28.

In a related development, free agent center Jock Landale has reached an agreement with the Grizzlies. Sources confirm that Landale will bolster the Grizzlies' frontcourt after the Huff trade. Landale's agent, Sammy Wloszczowski of SIG Sports, finalized the terms.

The Grizzlies have increased their on-ball screens under Tuomas Iisalo, which suits Landale's style. GeniusIQ data indicates that Landale ranked third in on-ball screens set per 100 possessions among players with at least 500 on-ball screens. Last season, Landale achieved career highs in both field goal percentage and 3-point field goal percentage.

The veteran center may see increased playing time early in the season, considering Zach Edey's recent ankle surgery in June. Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. is also in recovery following a turf toe procedure and is scheduled for reevaluation in 12 weeks.