::MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES SEASON THREAD: Grizzlies Waiting Before Offering Z-Bo Extension::

[henz0]

Good season.. Hope they finish at least .500 and Rudy stays.. Nxt year will be

 

[i nasmatic i]

Originally Posted by friscostylez

Originally Posted by I NaSmatic I

He needs to refine his ball handling and improve his decision making before making that move.

honestly, oj ball handling is pretty good, he just need to do a better job at keeping his dribble low and his decision making is good too he just need to make the easy play at a more consistent bases. I think the only way OJ can maximize his potential is to move to the PG because his athleticism and lack of length is going to hold him back at being a D-Wade-type combo guard.

I'd like to see them experiment, but the last time I checked Hollins is totally against the move. When he had to run PG vs the Hornets earlier this season it was horrible and a big reason why the Grizzlies lost.

 

[bhzmafia14]

What I'm upset about is the fact that Chris Wallace thinks he can be at that Billups type of guard. Anyone see the youtube video of the young Billups? Him and OJ have alot of similarities in their early careers.

But, back to what makes me upset....Why waste time giving PG minutes to guys like Buckner, Williams and Tinsley the past few seasons when they could've been giving OJ around 15 minutes at the PG spot when Conley was out? That's two seasons of OJ not learning the position better because he wasn't getting consistent play there. Were we planning on being a playoff team the past two seasons as to why he couldn't play around 15 minutes at that position? No.

Hollins is too much of a traditionalist and isn't giving him the chance to prove himself. You have guys like Westbrook and Curry who were playing SG for most of their life coming into the league transitioning to a PG because their coach and GM believed in them to make that transition. So, instead of the upcoming season being OJ's 3rd year playing PG possibly being able to now handle the position, it will be his first (if that).

There's another so much he can do in the off-season, but real-game decisions is what make you a better player. Same could've been said with Thabeet. We wasn't really going anywhere far this season, so why not give Thabeet as many minutes as possible? Why take him out when he makes a stupid foul? I'm tired of seeing OJ getting lit up by SG's like Kevin Martin. Let's see what he can do at PG.

/rant

 

[i nasmatic i]

Good W tonight vs the Spurs.

 

[henz0]

Williams,arthur,Young,brewer thabeet and an added shooter this offseason will b a good bench nxt season

 

[i nasmatic i]

After a disastrous 1-8 start to the season, the Grizzlies finished 40-42. They were in the playoff race before injuries and a tough schedule took their toll.

The starters were great for the most part. Marc Gasol had a very good sophomore campaign until a partially torn neck muscle ended his season. Gasol slimmed down over the summer and it improved his stamina immensely. He shot a high percentage, rebounded well and was a defensive presence. I can't wait to see him next season, he's definitely one of the more underrated players in the league. After getting trashed by many people ( including me

), Zach Randolph had an all star season. Z-Bo did exactly what the Grizzlies had brought him in for; scoring down low, rebounding and leadership. He's embraced the city and the city has embraced him. He wants an extension, which I think management will eventually give to him. Rudy Gay had a good season for the Grizzlies. He scored well and maintained his focus more than ever before. The only downside is that he's a restricted free agent this summer. He wanted a $60 million extension before the season, but that may be higher now. With so many teams possessing cap space, the Grizzlies are in a tough position. I think the Grizzlies are better off pulling a sign-and-trade for Gay than meeting his demands and overpaying him. Should be interesting tracking what happens with him this summer. O.J. Mayo had a solid season for the Grizzlies. Mayo took a different role than he did his rookie season, where was much more relied on to score. This season, Mayo took his focus off scoring and rounded out his game. However the issue remains he's a bit undersized for shooting guard, due to his lack of size, length and average athleticism. The Grizzlies are going to have to figure something out so he can stop getting torched by taller shooting guards. Mike Conley had a decent season for the Grizzlies. Conley's frustrating to watch but he is the best point guard on the team and is a seamless fit next to the four starters. And of course, in usual Conley fashion he ended up averaging 16.5 PPG and 5 APG over the last two months

. I have no idea what the team is going to do with Conley this summer.

The bench was a embarrassing this season, but I can't say I'm surprised. They were made up of guys that were either extremely young or has-beens. Hasheem Thabeet was the second pick in the 2009 Draft and was up-and-down the entire season, including a stint in the D-League. We all knew Thabeet was going to be at least a two year project, but it was still disappointing. It didn't help seeing Tyreke Evans and Stephen Curry light up the league on a nightly basis either. Thabeet was at times lethargic and reportedly shows a poor work ethic. The bright side is that he showed the potential to be a huge defensive presence. He's one of the league leaders in blocked shots per 48 minutes and did a adequate job filling in for Gasol the last month of the season. I hope management follows through and hires Dikeme Mutombo to tutor Thabeet. Sam Young was another rookie on the bench. He displayed the ability to score but needs to work on getting his baskets in the flow of the game. It would also help if he could improve his dribbling. There's also DeMarre Caroll, who sucks and hopefully gets traded during the summer. The also Lester Hudson, who's a local product. He's a scorer but too small. I'm not sure if he sticks around in the long term. Backup point guard will be an issue heading into next season as I doubt Jamaal Tinsley and Marcus Williams return. Both had their chances, but for the most part were non-factors. Hamed Haddadi was decent at times for a backup center, but with Gasol and Thabeet in the fold, I'm not sure what to think. Ronnie Brewer was acquired before the trade deadline, but unfortunately we never saw what Brew could offer because he got injured his first game as a Grizzly. He's also a restricted free agent this summer, but I think he'll be re-signed for a decent price tag.

All in all, I'm proud of the team. I pegged them winning 23 games (28 tops) before the season and they damn near doubled my prediction. It's a big off-season with Gay and Brewer hitting free agency and three first round picks in the Draft. I can't wait to see what happens. If I have some time later, I'll post my thoughts on what they need to do during the summer so they can go to the playoffs next season.

Sorry for the wall of text.

P.S. Be on the lookout for a little something I put together to commemorate the season.

 

[bhzmafia14]

Nice read Nas

More news:

- From the radio, the coaching staff has reached out to OJ Mayo about playing PG in summer league this off-season. They want him to improve his ballhandling and decision making to see if he's capable of actually running the team next season.

- Rudy is already looking at tape on ways to improve his game for next season

- Hollins got a 3-year extension

- Still working on getting Mutombo as a consultant

- Players express their team needs being a 3-point shooter and a bench.

That's a good start to the off-season because it shows they're not content with just leaving Conley there.

Its good to know that the front office realizing we have a problem with our backcourt. Meaning we either need to work with OJ at the one, put him on the bench or trade him. I definitely prefer the first option over the other two right now which is trying to see how well he can work at the PG position.

They should've played him at PG at least the last 5-10 games. We lost like 2 of our last 10 anyway so I didn't see why it would've been a big deal.

The team stressed that we needed 3-point shooting, so I would expect them to put a guy that can defend and shoot the three next to OJ. Possibly Roger Mason since we were rumored to make a move to get him before the deadline. Re-sign Brewer and Gay.

OJ / Mason / Gay / Zach / Gasol

Conley / Brewer / Young / Arthur / Thabeet

with added draft picks. That seems like the route they may be going if OJ can transition to PG.

 

[i nasmatic i]

Let's bring back Mike Miller.

 

[friscostylez]

Originally Posted by bhzmafia14

Nice read Nas

More news:

- From the radio, the coaching staff has reached out to OJ Mayo about playing PG in summer league this off-season. They want him to improve his ballhandling and decision making to see if he's capable of actually running the team next season.

- Rudy is already looking at tape on ways to improve his game for next season

- Hollins got a 3-year extension

- Still working on getting Mutombo as a consultant

- Players express their team needs being a 3-point shooter and a bench.

That's a good start to the off-season because it shows they're not content with just leaving Conley there.

Its good to know that the front office realizing we have a problem with our backcourt. Meaning we either need to work with OJ at the one, put him on the bench or trade him. I definitely prefer the first option over the other two right now which is trying to see how well he can work at the PG position.

They should've played him at PG at least the last 5-10 games. We lost like 2 of our last 10 anyway so I didn't see why it would've been a big deal.

The team stressed that we needed 3-point shooting, so I would expect them to put a guy that can defend and shoot the three next to OJ. Possibly Roger Mason since we were rumored to make a move to get him before the deadline. Re-sign Brewer and Gay.

OJ / Mason / Gay / Zach / Gasol

Conley / Brewer / Young / Arthur / Thabeet

with added draft picks. That seems like the route they may be going if OJ can transition to PG.

Honestly if they are looking to put OJ at the point, they more than likely trading Conley. Conley is a starting PG in the L, why kill his trade value by not starting him? I think we should trade Conley for a 1st round or a scoring 2 (JR Smith type) off the bench. Start OJ and Brewer in the backcourt.

 

[bangdak]

I guess Memphis isnt really satisfied with Conley quite yet.




I think conley has a bit more value then a first round pick, but hes way too inconsistent.


What this team should aim for this offseason:
-Pursing Mount Mutombo
-Finding a starting point to shift conley to the bench role (would solidify the bench imo)
-S+T Gay for another wing/PG.
-Work on that "project" (put this twice to emphasize the importance)



Players i think this team should be looking at:
Granger, Bill Walker, Nate, Ray Allen, JJ, etc.

Got some decent court vision, can hit the open 3, you get my point.







BTW Bhz, OKC's in the playoffs

 

[henz0]

Bringing back Mike Miller would be

Bellinelli is a free agent isnt he?? Maybe they should look into him. Or maybe 1 of those picks for Redick

No way they can go into next season without a shooter and moving OJ to the PG position.. that lineup BHZ posted with OJ & brewer in the backcourt would work good defensively and they'd have no problem scoring as seen this season

For the people that think OJ cant play the point for this team... Why not? Its not like conley broke down the D and created for anyone on a consistant basis, im sure OJ could avg 5+ assist if he was the starting PG which is what conley avg'd

 

[i nasmatic i]

The thing with Conley is he always starts the season off slow then picks it up after the all star break.

I'm not sure what Conley can fetch. He's a solid PG that has his moments. He's just not aggressive nor consistent enough. He's definitely worth more than a first round pick (outside the lottery anyways) though. Maybe the Grizzlies ship Conley to Portland so he nurse Greg Oden for Rudy Fernandez? Fernandez has been depressed since Sergio Rodriguez got traded. In Memphis he would have Gasol.

He's a shooter too.

 

[bangdak]

I wanted rudy on the knicks

JJ Redick was a good one.



Im just not convinced he can play point full time. maybe partially, but full? im having a little doubts, although i wish he can prove me wrong.


He just doesnt have the court vision, nor the handles to do it.



and if Conley can get a lottery pick, i say go for it. no way in hell thats happening though.

 

[i nasmatic i]

If they're really shifting O.J. to point guard and moving Conley, then they must get a reliable, veteran point guard to bring off the bench. That way, if O.J. falters they can move him to shooting guard and start that point guard. Someone like Earl Watson or Steve Blake meets the bill.

 

[friscostylez]

There's no doubt Conley is worth more than a 1st round pick. He would have been a senior if he were still in OSU and he def would been the next best PG after Wall. I think Conley would be a greater fit in NY or something, I think Memphis actually stunned his growth. For FA, if somehow we get Bill Walker

 

[dland24]

stunted.

 

[i nasmatic i]

Re-signing Rudy Gay is Job 1 for Memphis Grizzlies

The first domino in the Grizzlies' offseason fell Thursday when coach Lionel Hollins agreed to a three-year contract extension.
Now it's on to preparing for the NBA draft.

Nothing, though, will be bigger than the potential contract that forward Rudy Gay might receive in free agency. The Grizzlies' decision on how to handle Gay's situation could loom just as large.

Gay will become a restricted free agent in July and figures to be amajor target for teams with significant money to spend under the salarycap. Memphis has the right to match any offers for Gay within sevendays.

And despite having three first-round draft picks, including a latelottery selection, Griz general manager Chris Wallace made clear whereGay stands on their to-do list.

"Rudy is our No. 1 priority," Wallace said. "Our intent is to keep Rudy in a Grizzlies uniform."

Gay just completed his fourth NBA season by averaging nearly 20points and six rebounds on 47-percent shooting. He improved. TheGrizzlies' record improved, too, but it was another losing campaign at40-42, and the Griz have averaged just 27 wins in Gay's brief career.

Like Hollins, Gay said he plans to make the team's direction an issue during negotiations.

"This has to progress in the right direction. I love being here, butI'm at the point where I want to win," Gay said. "I want to have anunderstanding that we're trying to get into the playoffs. How much ofan effort are we making? Memphis is a great city. It deserves a winningteam, a playoff team. I'm going to do my best to achieve that if I'mhere."

Gay turned down a five-year, $50 million deal before the start ofthis season. He was looking for a contract similar to the $65million-$70 million Portland's LaMarcus Aldridge received.

Asked if he feels as good today about turning down an average of $10 million per season, Gay didn't hesitate.

"Yeah," he said. "It's not as much about the money as much as being comfortable about what we're doing (as a franchise)."

There are at least eight teams with more than $10 million to spendthis offseason. There also is a general belief that Gay will be one ofthe first second-tier players targeted. Players such as LeBron James,Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Joe Johnson will likely command a team'sinitial interest.

"We need to recruit Rudy, and it'll be a college-style recruitment,"Wallace said. "I don't think we can say Rudy's played for us for fouryears, and he knows where we are. He's going to have strong suitors,and we're going to have to get in there very early and make a case forMemphis and how he fits in."

Memphis won't be a big player in free agency for the first time in acouple of seasons. The Griz expect to have a payroll at or just belowthe salary cap. The franchise expects to have at its disposal midlevel($5.8 million) and bi-annual ($1.8 million) exceptions even though thesalary cap reportedly will be set at $56 million.

Wallace said the team's cap situation makes retaining players and internal development paramount to the team's growth.

Swingman Ronnie Brewer'sright hamstring injury allowed him to appear in just five games afterhe was acquired from Utah. He was out of sight on the court but won'tbe out of mind as a restricted free agent.

Griz owner Michael Heisley insists that re-signing Brewer also is apriority because the team gave Utah a first-round pick as compensation.Brewer, whose value might be more in the midlevel range, expects to beback.

"You definitely want to be on a team that every year is on the rise.You want to be able to compete every night," Brewer said. "I feel asthough I fit in with this team. I can see myself helping this team getto the next level. Hopefully, (a contract) gets done here. Mr. Heisleyhas seen what I can do."

Wallace pointed out that while the draft is less likely to affect the Grizzlies' mode of operation in free agency, the team could be aggressive in June.

"We're not only evaluating the draft prospects. But we're weighingthe merits of trading for veterans, future picks, or money," Wallacesaid. "There are endless possibilities there. Can you check all ofthose boxes off as far as needs go? That remains to be seen.

"But it's a huge offseason for us not just in terms of acquiring newtalent and taking care of Rudy. It's a huge offseason for our playersto continue to grow."

Tip-in: The Grizzlies will be slotted 12th in the May 18 draftlottery after winning a tiebreaker Friday over the Toronto Raptors.Both teams finished 40-42. The Raptors will be slotted 13th. That meansthe Grizzlies will pick no higher than 12th in the June draft -- unlessthey land one of the top three picks during the lottery. They have lessthan a 1-percent chance of getting the No. 1 pick. The Grizzlies alsowill have the 25th and 28th picks.


I know Rudy is the face of the franchise, but management needs to think about the ramifications of offering/matching a contract to Rudy that exceeds $10 million per season. I don't want the Grizzlies to end up like the Pistons and Hornets overpaying for above average talents like Ben Gordon and Emeka Okafor

. Management also has to take into consideration Gasol, Z-Bo and Conley will be free agents and O.J. will be up for an extension in 2011.

 

[DsLee]

If they resign Rudy, I don't see how they don't make the playoffs next year. After smelling playoff birth this season, the Grizz will be extremely hungry next season.
I'd love to see OJ at the point for a bit as well.

 

[bhzmafia14]

After what I've read throughout the season, Rudy isn't going nowhere. The front office loves Rudy. He's still only 23 years old and believe it or not, he wants to improve his game.

We already don't have enough athleticism on the team, so that alone will keep him on the team. We need to add more athleticism through the draft as well. I would like to find a way to get Fernandez from Portland as well.

The only guys on our bench right now that should get some PT next year is Sam and Thabeet. We need a tighter rotation, but we can still have a deep bench. Look at how deep Portland is with all their injuries. That's what good drafting gets you.

With the system Memphis runs, OJ could run PG mainly because its up to the PG to get the ball down low. We work inside/out. I would like to see him actually lose around 10 pounds as well to try and gain a little more quickness. I would much rather see OJ being used as being the ball dominant guard, than him running around picks and standing in the corner. Let Brewer be the guy running around screens in a motion type offense to get buckets in the paint like he use to in Utah.

I see Rudy getting 5yrs/$55, at the most $60. If it all came down to it, Memphis will pay Rudy, OJ and Gasol before they pay Conley and Zach. I also see them making a decision on Gasol/Thabeet soon. They just might look to package Marc in a deal to bring in a prime time PG making it where Heisley only has to worry about paying Thabeet which would be like 3 years down the road and OJ.

We have a lot of possibilities this off-season. This is the most important off-season for Memphis. They went from 24-58 to 40-42 in a year. Now in their final year of the so-called "3-year plan", they got a chance to make the playoffs which is what Heisley promised the city. He also said if the plan backfired, that it would be all his fault.


Random:

anybody think OJ / ZBo / #12 / Thabeet for CP3 / Okafor's contract would work?

i only see NOH doing it because zbo comes off the books next year, they get rid of okafor's long-term deal, get another lotto pick along with oj. they will have plenty of cap space at the end of the 10-11 season to make a play for a good FA forward.

memphis will get their star PG who is also good friends with rudy. get a defensive shot blocker in okafor to play next to gasol despite his long-term deal.

cp3 / brewer / gay / okafor / gasol

 

[henz0]

I was thinking that too about how they might try to move Gasol for some pieces

 

[bhzmafia14]

After watching the first few games of the playoffs, having a big man of Gasol's caliber is worth a lot. If we had to lock up anybody on that roster, I would make it Marc no matter how much of a defensive presence Thabeet is.

IMO, you win championships with big men like Marc moreso than guys like Thabeet.

I just want Heisley to propose a deal to New Orleans for CP3. We have 4 real good players all around the same level. We got to trade two of those guys preferably keeping Gasol and Rudy/OJ.

Heat got Shaq for Butler, Odom and Cook. Celtics got KG for Jefferson and a bunch of young scrubs.

I just think OJ is assed out due to positioning in the backcourt. Getting a guy like CP3, means you need a bigger two guard. I can go with a core of Paul / Gay / Gasol anyday of the week. That's basically a superstar and two all-stars.

 

[bhzmafia14]

[h2][/h2]

[h2]NBA Offseason Preview: Grizzlies[/h2]


By Cory Elfrink
April 21, 2010 1:18pm CDT

The Grizzlies exceeded expectations this season by going 40-42 andbriefly challenging to make the Western Conference playoffs despite onethe youngest rosters in the NBA. They went 39-34 after Allen Iverson left the team in November. Zach Randolph was a revelation, maintaining good behavior and strong effort all season while making his first All-Star game. Marc Gasolmade huge strides, making some re-think their initial harsh verdicts ofthe trade that sent his brother to the Lakers. However, Hasheem Thabeetappeared to be a bust as the No. 2 overall pick in a loaded draft, andthe young backcourt of Conley and Mayo did not leap ahead as somepeople envisioned. The team enters the offseason with a huge decisionregarding the future of Rudy Gay and holding three first-round draft picks.

Cap situation: $39.7 million committed to nine players. Leaguesalary cap estimated at $54 million for 2010-2011 season. The team willlikely also make qualifying offers to Rudy Gay ($4.4m) and Ronnie Brewer ($3.8m).

Returning players: Zach Randolph, O.J. Mayo, Marc Gasol, Mike Conley, Hasheem Thabeet, Darrell Arthur, DeMarre Carroll, Sam Young, and Hamed Haddadi.

Key free agents: Rudy Gay and Ronnie Brewer will likely be restricted free agents. Other free agents include Steven Hunter, Jamaal Tinsley, and Marcus Williams.

Draft Picks: Lottery pick (12th-worst record in the league), 25th pick, and the 28th pick.

Five Burning Questions
1) Should they pay up to keep Gay?
Gay is going to be a hot-button issue for the Grizzlies franchise andtheir fans this summer. The 23-year-old will be a restricted freeagent, and given the amount of cap space throughout the league, heshould find a plush deal. He has already turned down a five-year, $50million extension, and it has been reported that he is seeking asix-year deal worth $80-$85 million.

The Grizzlies should hold firm on their original offer. As a restrictedfree agent, they have 15 days to match any deal Gay signs with anotherclub. During those 15 days, the team that makes the offer has thatmoney tied up, limiting additional moves in free agency. As a result,restricted free agents are not usually in serious contention forcontracts until most of the unrestricted free agents are locked intonew deals. Once those deals are signed, most teams will be dealing withconsiderably less cash. All this means the Grizzlies should hold tightand wait for another team to make the first move. As we saw with David Leelast summer, teams had their payrolls tied up with early moves onunrestricted free agents, and the Knicks ended up keeping him for abargain price.

Gay is certainly not worth a six-year, $80 million deal. He has neverbeen close to an All-Star over his four seasons. He has never finishedin the top-10 in any statistical category. The Griz have averaged just27 wins per season since he arrived. They've never made the playoffs.Gay's game-to-game effort is erratic. This season alone he had twomonths in which he averaged more than 21 points per game and two otherswhen he averaged fewer than 18. Furthermore, he's not an efficientplayer. His career Player Efficiency Rating is 15.6 (15.0 is average),and last season he held just a 16.2 mark. Despite playing a ton ofminutes in 2009-10, his 2007-08 season remains his best effort. TheGrizzlies ranked last in the league in three-pointers made, an area inwhich Gay took 2.5 per game and made 0.8 (32.7 percent). The majorityof wing players in the NBA peak between 24-26, and the position is theeasiest to replace. For instance, of the D-Leaguers that held their ownin the league this season, most of them were young small forwards: Reggie Williams, Cartier Martin, and Mike Harris.

The Grizzlies drafted two small forwards last season in Sam Young and DeMarre Carroll.They hold three first-round picks in this draft and may have a shot atWesley Johnson, Al-Farouq Aminu, Quincy Pondexter, James Anderson,Gordon Heyward, and Euro-sensation Jan Vesely. In free agency, Josh Childress, Travis Outlaw, and Mike Miller would be far cheaper options that would help shore up some of the team's lack of three-point shooting.

Also, the team holds the restricted rights to Ronnie Brewer,who, as you know, started for three seasons for the playoff-bound Jazz(he was on his way to a fourth such season before being dealt to theGrizzlies). He's a year older than Gay but entered the league in thesame season. The University of Arkansas product is a career 52.1percent shooter. Sure, he's not nearly as good as Gay on offense, buthis defense is exponentially better. His athleticism fits perfectlywith this team (assuming his hamstring injury is nothing to worryabout). Oh, and he'll come at about a quarter of the contract that Gaywill receive. In fact, I would say re-signing Brewer for three yearsand $14 million would be much better than paying Gay $50 million forfive years (the offer Gay already turned down).

Finally, signing Gay for more than $10 million per season locks up toomuch cap space. Both Randolph and Gasol are set to be free agents nextseason, and the team may soon be talking extensions with Mayo andConley. Not to mention that the first-round picks from this draft willall have guaranteed contracts. Gay simply isn't worth it. In fact, I'mnot even sure he's worth five years and $50 million. Not to mentionthat giving him even $10 million will put the team over the cap (unlessthey trade some other assets) and negate many other possible free agentacquisitions.

Will the Grizzlies pay Gay's asking price?
Withall that said, Grizzlies fans would be irate if they lost Gay, and theperception that the organization is "cheap" would only grow.Considering that only the Nets and Kings sold fewer tickets lastseason, ownership can ill-afford to lose additional fan support. Youcould do worse than re-sign Gay, but overpaying him could have negativelong-term effects.

2) Should they keep all three first round picks?

Aside from their lottery pick (there's a 93.5 percent chance they getthe 12th pick and a 2.5 percent chance they get a top-three selection),the team holds the Nuggets' 25th pick and the Lakers' 28th pick. Theydo not have a selection in the second round. Neither Wes Johnson norAminu will likely fall to the 12th pick. Vesely may be there, but thefranchise has had mixed results with foreign players. Depending onforthcoming workouts, the lottery would probably be too high to reachfor Pondexter, J. Anderson, or Hayward. There are no point guards inthis range, meaning they're looking at big men like Ekpe Udoh, GregMonroe, Hassan Whiteside (bust), Patrick Patterson, and Cole Aldrich.Adding a big to this roster is not a high priority making their likelyspot in the draft a precarious one.

Given the depth of the upcoming draft, there should be plenty offitting pieces available at Nos. 25 and 28. Aside from Pondexter,Anderson, and Hayward, they would also be considering Elliot Williams(Memphis), Damion James (Texas), Paul George (Fresno State), ArmonJohnson (Nevada), Willie Warren (Oklahoma), Sherron Collins (Kansas)and perhaps even Xavier Henry (Kansas).

I think it makes sense to find a trade. The No. 12 pick is ill-fittingto the current makeup of the team. Trading up for W. Johnson or Aminuwould be ideal, but they could also exchange draft picks for currentplayers such as Caron Butler, Thaddeus Young, or Tayshaun Prince.There are several rebuilding teams around the league to pluck from anda few more that simply want to get younger. Snagging cheap and goodforwards such as Wilson Chandler, Martell Webster, or Ryan Gomes could be done for one of their later picks in the first round. Let's hope the front office explores the many positive options.

3) How can they upgrade their bench?
The Grizzlies bench was arguably the least effective unit in the entireleague and certainly logged the fewest minutes. The three rookies -Thabeet, Carroll, and Young - each played in at least 68 games, andit's only fair to assume they will improve. However, Brewer, whostarted 223 games for the Utah Jazz in his four-year career, needs tobe retained, and it wouldn't cost much. His versatility on the wing andhis strong defense would be a boon to this team's continuedimprovement. The team also hopes that Darrell Arthurcomes back bigger and can serve as a suitable backup to Randolph. Inshort, they have most of their bases covered. There are two bigexceptions though: scoring and playmaking. One player that could shoreup both of those concerns would be unrestricted free agent Nate Robinson.Although he has been chided for his immaturity, there's no denying his2008-09 numbers (most of which were earned as a reserve): 17.2 points,4.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals. Robinson played just 19.9minutes per game this season, the fewest of any of his four campaigns,but still averaged 10.1 points per game. The time on the pine shouldhave served as a humbling experience, one that may make him a morecoachable player moving forward.

4) Are their free agents that can help?

The Grizzlies do not have a lot of cap space, but they could exceed thesoft cap if they feel they are ready to compete for the playoffs.Either way, they'll be looking at lower-tier free agents to helpstrengthen the roster. Obviously, I think Krypto-Nate would be a goodfit for this team - not only due to his position and scoring ability,but he's also one of the most charismatic and popular players that hasnever been a true starter in this league. This franchise could use ahealthy dose of charisma and popularity. I also think that Childress,M. Miller, W. Chandler, and Outlaw could significantly aid the team ifthey choose to let Gay get his next contract somewhere else. Otherplayers worth serious consideration include guards Shannon Brown, and Roger Mason and forwards Rasual Butler, Dorrell Wright, and Amir Johnson. They should also keep an eye on former Memphis Tiger Chris Douglas-Roberts should the Nets decide to let him go.

5) Should Randolph get his extension?

No. Randolph has already approached owner Michael Heisley about anextension (he's a free agent after next season). Z-Bo says he lovesMemphis and wants to finish his career there. Unfortunately, he alsowants an extension similar to that of the much-better Pau Gasol.The elder Gasol recently signed a three-year, $57 million extension.C'mon, Zach, even you know you're not worth anything close to that.Randolph has been phenomenal for the Grizzlies, but giving him anextension in the shadows of a possible lockout would be foolish. Playersalaries are expected to take a big hit in the near future, and a hardcap could be in place after next summer. Even without the lockout,Randolph is worth a max of $36 million over the next three seasons.Gasol has made three All-Star games, has an NBA championship (and aEuroleague Championship, FIBA World Championship, Olympic silver medal,etc.), and he has been a major part of six teams that have won at least45 games. Randolph is a one-time All-Star... and that's about it.

Ideal Situation: This summer really hangs on two things: Gay andthe draft. I hope the Grizzlies don't go more than five years and $50million for Gay, and even then, I think they may be overpayingconsidering his limited success and the position that he plays. Shouldthey let him go, they could possibly move their 12th pick for anestablished small forward on a team looking to get younger. C. Butler,T. Young, or T. Prince would be possible targets. If they go the freeagent route, I think Josh Childresswould be the best fit for this team due to his outside shooting,unselfish play, dedicated attitude, and strong defense. M. Miller andT. Outlaw would be last resort options. I think re-signing Brewershould be the team's bigger priority, and I also really like how thereigning slam dunk champion fits on this squad. If they keep all oftheir picks, they should take one of the many big men projected to beavailable at No. 12, partly as an effort to replace Randolph if heleaves in free agency next summer and to provide leverage if theymistakenly discuss extension with him this summer. Baylor's Ekpe Udohwould be my top choice. With their other two first-rounders, GordonHayward could work out for them and guard Eliot Williams would be anice touch as a scorer who played his college ball at MemphisUniversity.

Resulting Depth Chart for 2010-11
PG: Mike Conley/Nate Robinson
SG: O.J. Mayo/Ronnie Brewer/Eliot Williams
SF: Rudy Gay/Gordon Hayward/Sam Young/DeMarre Carroll
PF: Zach Randolph/Ekpe Udoh/Darrell Arthur
C: Marc Gasol/Hasheem Thabeet/Hamed Haddadi
This article sums up everything very nicely.

I like a lot of the ideas he put in there. If Memphis really wants to build a championship team, they have to start with the right pieces now. If we do have to give Rudy a 6yr/$80mil deal we better turn it down. Even if its around 5yr/$60+. I do like going after a guy like Thaddeus Young, but we would need to get something else. Maybe their 1st rounder and Thad for Rudy and one of our late picks?  That would set us up nicely with two lottery picks and base of OJ / Brewer / Thad / Zbo / Gasol.

And I didn't notice how much money we would have if we didn't re-sign Rudy. We will almost have max money if the cap space is set to $54mil. Re-signing Brewer would be no more than about $4 maybe $5mil leaving us with around $43 mil on the roster. Draft Henry and Udoh in the lottery. Look for some free agent signings. We would be set up nicely.
http://www.rototimes.com/nba/player/1769

 

[i nasmatic i]

His figures are off, he's not counting Marko Jaric's contract.

Quick thoughts: I like the idea of adding Tayshaun Prince (sign and trade for Rudy?). I'm intrigued by Nate Robinson, but I'm weary of his attitude. Mike Miller would help a lot if his contract demands aren't too high. Management has been linked to Travis Outlaw for awhile, so he could be an option. I want Xavier Henry as well, but I'm not sure he'll be available at 12. I don't care too much for the late first round picks.

 

[bhzmafia14]

But even if Riley is able to land one extremely heavy hitter in freeagency (that list begins with LeBron James and continues with ChrisBosh, Amare Stoudemire and Carlos Boozer), he isn't going to haveenough room to get that second stud if he still has Beasley on theroster making $4.96 million.

And sources have told ESPN.com thatMiami, fed up with Beasley's lack of devotion to defense and steeplearning curve in the maturity department, tried diligently to moveBeasley before the trading deadline in February but found no takerswilling to give up anything more than garbage.

So if Beasley canbe moved before the draft for a player with only a partial guaranteefor 2010-11, or if the Heat can arrange an uneven deal (salary-wise)and send him to an under-the-cap team in a trade that would beconsummated after the league's one-week moratorium on player movementends July 8, look for Riley to go for it.

Because despiteBeasley's brief burst of offense -- four of his seven field goals camein a stretch of the first four minutes of the fourth quarter to helpMiami battle back right when it appeared Boston was poised to pull away-- his body of work in this series, 11.7 points and 7.0 rebounds, andhis two years of incidents and inconsistency have made him expendable.

Yes,it would be difficult to tacitly admit Beasley was a mistake at No. 2,but major mistakes have been made there before (the name Darko Thabeet comes to mind).
Perfect option for when Z-Bo leaves and can be a good sixth man off the bench.

If they looking for a partially guarenteed contract, they more than likely want a productive player for cheap along with maybe a draft pick.

At first I was thinking a sign and trade with Rudy, but that won't solve anything since they want to get a PF. Conley wouldn't work because their salaries are virtually the same.

Dorrell Wright will be gone after this season and they have a $4.6 team option on James Jones that they should and probably will decline because he's not worth that much.

My proposed deal:
Sam Young
#12 pick

for

Michael Beasley

They get a productive player that will give them more money to help sign Bosh, Boozer or STAT. They also get a lottery pick who will be able to fill a need. Under Hollins, I can see Beasley possibly changing his ways. I would even look to move Zach for 2 or 3 productive players if we got Beasley. Then, we will actually have a style of play that we can work with going into training camp which would be a run n gun offense.

OJ / Brewer / Gay / Beasley / Gasol

 

[i nasmatic i]

I wouldn't be opposed to that. I would rather give up Haddadi or Arthur if Miami was so desperate to cut salary.