Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol won't play against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday, according to Grizzlies head coach J.B. Bickerstaff.
A report surfaced on Tuesday stating the Grizzlies and Charlotte Hornets were in advanced discussions on a Marc Gasol trade.
As a result, Memphis is sitting Gasol so the Spaniard doesn't get hurt versus Minnesota.
In 53 games this season for Memphis, Marc Gasol is averaging 15.7 points, 8.6 rebounds and 4.7 assists per contest.
The three-time All-Star and former Defensive Player of the Year is shooting 44.4 percent from the field, 34.4 percent from beyond the arc and 75.6 percent from the free-throw line.
The Grizzlies are 21-33 on the season. They have the second-worst record in the NBA. Along with Gasol, Memphis is taking trade calls on starting point guard Mike Conley as well.
Marc Gasol has spent his entire NBA career with Memphis, but even the 34-year-old sees the writing on the wall.
The franchise is in rebuild mode and wants to build around rookie Jaren Jackson Jr. Gasol and Conley have had a great run with the organization, but it's time to move on.
Gasol is making $24,119,025 this season, and he has a player option worth $25,595,700 for next season.