5 free agents Memphis Grizzlies could target to replace Dillon Brooks

Dillon Brooks’ expected departure would create a chasm on the wing for the Memphis Grizzlies that likely wouldn't be filled by an option currently on the roster.

While there’s overwhelming belief the Grizzlies will look to upgrade the starting small forward position through the trade market, don’t rule out a free agency. Memphis has a $12.2 midlevel exception that is unlikely to command star players, but it could get the Grizzlies someone who can help the team reach its NBA championship goals.

The flashiest free agent names include Khris Middleton, Cameron Johnson, Kyle Kuzma and Jerami Grant. Each of them are expected to command more salary than the midlevel exception. Memphis could still get creative with its attempts to acquire one of those players, but it's a long shot.

The trade market feels like the best option to acquire a high-end talent at small forward, but that still would likely mean parting ways with a key member of the rotation. If Memphis made one of the moves below with its midlevel exception, that could keep the bench in tact.

Here are five players the Grizzlies could target in free agency:

OFFSEASON PLANS: What Grizzlies GM Zach Kleiman said about Dillon Brooks' future, team offseason plans

LEADING THE WAY: Why the Grizzlies are relying on Desmond Bane, Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. as leaders

TRADE CANDIDATES: An aggressive offseason could signal the end for key Memphis Grizzlies role players

Caris LeVert, Cleveland Cavaliers

A wing who was once called “baby Durant,” Caris LeVert can create his shot and be a dynamic scorer. He mostly came off the bench for the Cleveland Cavaliers last season, but he averaged 15 points and five assists in 30 starts. LeVert isn’t known as a 3-point shooter, but he shot a career high 39% while attempting 4.4 per game last season. That combined with his improved defense could price him out of the Grizzlies’ range, but the chance to be a starter on a contender could be enticing.

Kelly Oubre, Charlotte Hornets

Kelly Oubre’s defensive instincts make him appealing to Memphis. He has averaged more than one steal per game the past six seasons, and he often creates havoc with deflections. Oubre also averaged 20 points in a career year last season, but his lack of playmaking and inconsistent shooting are why he's in play for the Grizzlies. Oubre made 2.3 3-pointers per game, but he shot 31.9% from deep and is at 33% for his career. He finished last season with more turnovers than assists, though is scoring and attacking style on both ends would be a plus.

Jae Crowder, Milwaukee Bucks

A former friend returns to Memphis? It’s no secret Jae Crowder wasn’t pleased with his role with the Phoenix Suns and how his short tenure in Milwaukee ended with did-not-play designations. If he has more to offer, Memphis may be the spot to do it. Crowder can be a veteran presence in the locker room, and he already has a great relationship with Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. On the floor, Crowder shot 43.6% on 3-pointers in an 18-game sample with the Bucks. While some Grizzlies fans may still scoff at Crowder’s 29.3% 3-point shooting in 45 games with Memphis in 2019-20, it’s fair to point out he has shot 38.4% on 956 attempts since being traded.

Harrison Barnes, Sacramento Kings

Harrison Barnes was a key factor in the rise of the Sacramento Kings. He spent most of his time at power forward, but Barnes is a natural small forward. His shooting ability stands out, as he shot at least 37.4% on 3-pointers in the past five seasons while averaging at least 14.5 points. In other words, his lowest 3-point shooting year during that stretch would have made him the third best shooter on Memphis last season. Barnes isn’t a great defender, so Memphis would lose some of what Brooks brought, but his offensive profile can take the Grizzlies to new heights.

Bruce Brown, Denver Nuggets

It’s time to get weird. Bruce Brown isn’t prototypical. He’s listed at 6-foot-4 and has played on three teams in five seasons. However, Brown is a tough player who can get after it defensively and make all the hustle plays. Brown is having a career year as a member of the top-seeded Denver Nuggets. In 31 starts, he’s averaging 13.9 points, 4.1 rebounds and four assists while shooting 51.4% overall and 41.3% on 3-pointers. Memphis would be betting on Brown’s starting numbers to translate to a full season.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: 5 Memphis Grizzlies free agent options to replace Dillon Brooks