What happened: The Memphis Grizzlies are trading forward Santi Aldama to the Dallas Mavericks, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. In return, Memphis receives guard AJ Johnson, a protected 2030 Golden State Warriors first-round pick, and two future second-round picks.
Why it matters: The move sends Dallas a versatile frontcourt piece while Memphis continues to accumulate draft capital heading into the 2026-27 season. Aldama, who had grown into a rotation contributor, gives the Mavericks additional size and shooting flexibility, while the Grizzlies bet on future assets and a younger guard in Johnson.
By the numbers: The deal also allows Memphis to preserve its full $29 million trade exception.
What to watch: Watch for how Dallas fits Aldama into its rotation and whether Memphis reroutes its growing stockpile of picks into another move before the season opens.