Zach Randolph is one of the names that will headline the 2014 class of free agents hitting the market. The Memphis Grizzlies star has become one of the most popular players in league the past few years after turning into a guaranteed double-double machine almost every night. When briefly discussing his future, Randolph simply said he would like retire in Memphis.
Randolph has a player option in his contract. With a net worth of almost $17 million he can opt out during the summer and seek a new contract either with the Grizzlies or elsewhere. Considering his recent successes leading Memphis to the postseason, Randolph will be highly sought after by teams in need of big, productive bodies. However, the forward is not really interested in leaving.
"I'd like to be here. I'd like to retire here," Randolph said, via ESPN.com. "You never know. If I've got to make some sacrifices to be here, I would. I still can play. I can still help a team out. I want to win a championship. I've made all the money in the world. I just want to win. I don't know yet [about opting in or opting out], but Memphis is my home. If they trade me tomorrow, I'm here. I just bought a new house. My daughters go to school [in Memphis]. That's my home."
Randolph admits that he is not exactly sure what the future will look like, considering he is 32-years-old and time is no longer on his side. The Grizzlies have reportedly already found Randolph's long-term replacement in forward Ed Davis so how much money are they willing to give the veteran and what kind of deal will be offered is really unknown. It is likely the veteran will want some security in his new contract. A four-year deal worth $32 million would still give Memphis enough money to re-sign Davis. But, that would mean Randolph is signed through age 36. Is it worth it?
After the team traded away Rudy Gay, everyone was vulnerable. ESPN's Chad Ford reported the team was not opposed to moving Randolph as well in order to save salary cap space. So the question then becomes do they pay both the veteran and Davis? Do they pay just one" Do they trade Randolph this season in order to get something in return?
Randolph says he is willing to take a pay cut in order to remain in Memphis which might be his only option. While his loyalty is admirable, it remains to be seen just how committed Memphis is to their long-time veteran.