Zach Randolph is one of the more intriguing players to hit free agency next summer not named LeBron James or Carmelo Anthony. The Memphis Grizzlies veteran has a players option to return to the team, but it appears he is likely to hit free agency. He could get $16.9 million in Memphis, but is considered to be searching for a long-term deal. As a result, the Grizzlies are prepared to trade him.
Randolph has been a key member of the Grizzlies. Memphis would rather get something in return for him than let him walk away for nothing at the end of the year. As a result, Memphis is shopping him at a pretty high price.
Bleacher Report is detailing the word of several sources saying the Grizzlies are targeting the New Orleans Pelicans, specifically Ryan Anderson, in a trade for Randolph. Anderson is a quality big man, averaging 21.7 points per game while shooting 47.7 percent from behind the arc. Sources say this trade will happen, it is just a matter of when.
The idea that the Pelicans would trade Anderson feels crazy. He is locked in for two more seasons and thriving alongside Anthony Davis. Not to mention, Anderson came cheap at a $17 million value. New Orleans is +12.2 points in 48 minutes when both players are on the court together. Anderson is one of the better stretch-4 players right now, proving to be very versatile.
The trade makes a lot of sense for Memphis. Anderson would be a strong compliment to Marc Gasol's inside game. The forward can work inside and post up from deep. He is leading the league in three-pointers made despite being on one of the worst scoring teams.
Randolph has said he has no intentions of leaving Memphis. Despite his expiring contract, the veteran is hopeful to one day retire a member of the Grizzlies, but he may not get the chance. At 32, he is seven years older than Anderson. His player option is expensive. The Grizzlies already want to lock down Ed Davis, the young power forward, who is set to be a restricted free agent.
Randolph is expected to be the center of several rumors in the coming weeks. Memphis is not looking to pay anymore luxury tax on a long-term contract. With Pau Gasol considering a move to the Grizzlies, Randolph is gone.
