After falling short against the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the 2017 NBA playoffs, the Memphis Grizzlies have undergone numerous roster changes. While Marc Gasol and Mike Conley are still around, Zach Randolph signed with the Sacramento Kings and Tony Allen remains a free agent.
Heading into the 2017-18 NBA season, there are questions about Gasol and Conley's futures in Memphis. Despite all the trade rumors, the Grizzlies reportedly consider the three-time All-Star untouchable according to Matt Moore of CBS Sports:
The Memphis Grizzlies consider All-Star center Marc Gasol “untouchable” and have refused to enter his name in any trade conversations, two sources close to the situation told CBS Sports this week.
As for Conley, who signed a five-year, $153 million deal last summer, the Grizzlies view him in the same light:
Typically, the idea that Gasol could be available stems from the perception that Memphis has lost momentum and “needs” a rebuild. The Grizzlies, in reality, have made the playoffs the past seven years, and their decision to re-sign both Gasol and Mike Conley (who is also considered “untouchable” according to sources) was made with the intention of building around the duo long-term.
After signing Conley and Chandler Parsons (four-year, $94 million deal), the Grizzlies do not have much financial flexibility. As the JaMycal Green situation is expected to be resolved prior to training camp, the Grizzlies have added Mario Chalmers, Tyreke Evans, and Ben McLemore in free agency.
While there have been changes in Memphis, the Grizzlies are still expected to be competitive in the Western Conference.
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