We are in the last stretches of the trade talks and it’s all heating up. The Memphis Grizzlies’ decision on its sought-after swingman, Tyreke Evans, is among the most anticipated for the day.
Here’s ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski’s update on the negotiations:
Sources: Memphis still holding out for a first-round pick to move Tyreke Evans — and Boston, Denver and Philadelphia have resisted offers beyond either a young player or a second-rounder. First-rounders have never been gripped so tightly in the league
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2018
It’s understandable that the Grizzlies are asking for a first-round pick. They are in need valuable draft picks, as they are headed for a rebuilding phase with Marc Gasol now 33 years old and Mike Conley currently nursing a heel injury.
Also, Evans is a versatile player that provides scoring and facilitating, and such a price is standard in certain situations. The nine-year veteran is also having one of his best seasons in a while, averaging team-leading stats of 19.5 points and 5.0 assists per game.
Then again, the aforementioned teams' concerns have weight as well. Jay King of Mass Live had a simple explanation:
“Evans' contract, which expires at the end of this season, is helping to drive down his value. Because it's just a one-year deal, whichever team acquires him will not own his Bird Rights and will not be able to exceed the salary cap to re-sign him this summer. Due to the circumstances, Evans will likely be a short-term rental if he ends up on a team like Boston that shouldn't have cap space this summer. And, it seems, teams are wary of offering too much for a guy they will only have for a few months.”
The lift that Evans could bring to any of the interested teams is not in doubt; he can and will help with the grind for a playoff push. The question is the uncertainty he'll more than likely bring come free agency.
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