In a quiet yet strategic offseason move, the Memphis Grizzlies have traded center Jay Huff to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for a future second-round pick and a second-round pick swap, sources tell ESPN.
While not a blockbuster deal by any means, this trade highlights two franchises focused on long-term roster construction and depth flexibility. For the Pacers, Huff represents an intriguing addition — a 7-foot-1 big man known for his rim protection, emerging perimeter shot, and high basketball IQ. At just 26 years old, he still has plenty of upside to develop, and Indiana is betting on unlocking that potential in their system.
Huff, a former Virginia Cavalier and NCAA champion, has bounced between the G League and NBA rosters since going undrafted in 2021. He made strong impressions in limited minutes with the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles Lakers organizations before signing a two-way contract with Memphis in 2023. While his time with the Grizzlies didn’t lead to a breakout role, his size, mobility, and skill set left enough promise for Indiana to take a calculated gamble.
From the Grizzlies’ perspective, the move is part of a broader effort to maintain roster flexibility and accumulate assets. With a healthy frontcourt rotation — including Jaren Jackson Jr., Brandon Clarke, and recently re-signed Xavier Tillman — Huff’s opportunities were expected to be limited. The second-round pick and potential swap provide Memphis with more draft leverage moving forward.
For both teams, the trade is less about immediate returns and more about future opportunity. Indiana continues to quietly reinforce its depth behind Myles Turner and Jalen Smith, while Memphis continues to prepare for life with a healthy Ja Morant and a rejuvenated core aiming for a strong 2025 playoff push.
Jay Huff now gets a fresh start — and perhaps, his best chance yet to carve out a meaningful NBA role. And sometimes, that’s all a player needs.
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