It’s official — forward Ziaire Williams is now a Brooklyn Net. The trade, which sends Williams, a 2030 second-round pick (via Dallas), and a trade exception from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Nets, has been confirmed. In return, the Grizzlies receive big man Mamadi Diakite, the draft rights to forward Nemanja Dangubic, and a trade exception.
Williams, who was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has struggled with injuries that have hindered his ability to meet expectations. However, the rebuilding Nets might be the perfect place for him to elevate his game.
Peter Botte of the New York Post noted, “Williams, who will earn $6.1 million in the final season of his rookie contract in 2024-25, averaged 8.2 points and shot just 30.7 percent from 3-point range in 20.4 minutes per game over 51 appearances last year for the Grizzlies.” Hip and back injuries kept Williams sidelined for the last month of the season.
Botte also wrote, “Memphis was looking to shed salary to stay under the first luxury-tax apron of the salary cap; Diakite is slated to make $2.27 million this season after appearing in just six NBA games in 2023-24 — three apiece with the Spurs and the Knicks.”
Although this trade may not be a game-changer for either team, it aligns with the Nets’ strategy of saving money and building through the draft. They might even uncover a hidden gem in Williams.
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