Memphis Grizzlies · Franchise era 3 of 6
The rebuild takes shape: the Memphis Grizzlies story
Franchise era
2007–08—2009–10
The rebuild takes shape
Memphis Grizzlies
The story in one sentence
Memphis turned toward youth, acquiring Marc Gasol and developing the players who would define its lasting identity.
The Gasol trade plants a new frontcourt
Marc Gasol, Mike Conley and Rudy Gay gave the era its recognizable core.
Its ending created the conditions for grit and grind.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 2007–08
What came before
Gasol became the franchise's first All-Star and led three straight playoff appearances after Hubie Brown installed a selfless ten-man system.
February 1, 2008
The Pau Gasol trade that changed two contenders
The Lakers needed an elite frontcourt partner for Kobe Bryant after Andrew Bynum's injury. Memphis chose cap relief, draft value and a long-term bet on Marc Gasol's development in Spain.
09Championship catalystFebruary 1, 2008LAL⇄MEMPau Gasol to the LakersLos Angeles acquired Pau Gasol and a future second-round pick. Memphis received expiring money, two young players, two firsts and the draft rights to Pau's younger brother Marc.9 assets · 3 outcomes＋
The original receipt
Los Angeles Lakers received
- • Pau Gasol
- • 2010 Memphis second-round pick
Memphis Grizzlies received
- • Kwame Brown
- • Javaris Crittenton
- • Aaron McKie
- • Draft rights to Marc Gasol · No. 48
- • 2008 Lakers first
- • 2010 Lakers first
- • Cash considerations
Pau helped Los Angeles reach three straight Finals and win two championships. Marc became a Defensive Player of the Year and the interior anchor of Memphis's Grit and Grind era.
Open full trade tree →After 2009–10
What came next
The Core Four upset top-seeded San Antonio and made seven straight playoffs by turning every game into a physical test.
The core