NBA trade season is here. Several teams will be in active over the next week leading into the Feb. 8 trade deadline to make roster improvements.

The Memphis Grizzlies, expected to be a Western Conference contender at the beginning of the season, are no longer contenders and are among the teams that should be selling based on their record, as injuries — including to star point guard Ja Morant — have stunted potential of this team.

Now, the question is how do those injuries shape the team’s future? Do the Grizzlies double down on the group built for this season and run it back next year? Or is it time to reshuffle pieces around the core group?

History suggests the Grizzlies will make their roster moves in the offseason, but the deadline is the first clue into how Memphis might approach its roster logjam.

Here are some names and keys to watch as the Grizzlies approach the trade deadline.

Grizzlies who could be traded at NBA trade deadline

John Konchar: The Grizzlies wing’s name has been rumored in trades for weeks. Konchar is on a contract that doesn’t expire until 2027, and he knows his role. He’s been a solid defender, rebounder and above average shooter when he’s aggressive. Playoff teams will value his ability to make a noticeable impact without a relatively high usage to star players. The Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers are two teams to monitor.

Xavier Tillman Sr.: Tillman is the only Grizzlies player on the 15-man roster who is playing on an expiring contract. The fourth-year center is fond of playing in Memphis, but he may be a victim of the numbers game. With a first-round pick, GG Jackson and any other offseason pickups needing roster spots, the Grizzlies will need space. Tillman is a versatile defensive big who can play a specialty role for a team who doesn’t require much from him on the offensive end. Since Memphis is likely to lose him at the end of the season, it wouldn't hurt to acquire an asset at the deadline.

BEST TRADE ASSETS: Exploring Memphis Grizzlies' best options ahead of NBA trade deadline

Who could be traded to Memphis?

Draft picks: This isn’t the answer many are looking for, but the biggest get for Memphis might end up being roster flexibility. The Grizzles have a logjam with so many players signed through 2024-25. The problem is some of them haven’t produced to standard. While those contracts could be harder to move, players like Tillman and Konchar could net second-round picks in a trade, and we know how much success the Grizzlies have had on those as of late. With Konchar and Tillman both making less than the terms outlined in the Dillon Brooks traded player exception, Memphis could take back picks in a deal for either player while creating an open roster spot and not having to match salary with another player.

Expiring contracts: The Grizzlies could pursue young talented players on affordable multiyear deals, but that seems counterproductive. Memphis wanted to become battle tested this season after relying on draft picks to replace experienced players. If Memphis has to take on players in a deal, the goal should be to acquire expiring contracts that retains team flexibility entering a pivotal offseason. Forward Oshae Brissett (Boston Celtics) and center Isaiah Jackson (Indiana Pacers) fit the mold of players who can come to Memphis, get an expanded opportunity and see whether they fit into the plans before free agency.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis Grizzlies trade candidates at 2024 NBA trade deadline