When the Golden State Warriors dumped Andre Iguodala’s contract by trading him to the Memphis Grizzlies, many believed the former Finals MVP would be bought out and become a free agent. While that may still happen, it appears as though Memphis is hoping to trade Iguodala to a team that wants his services in order to gain an asset in the process.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks are the teams currently interested in a trade for the forward.
The Grizzlies just managed to trade Kyle Korver to get some assets instead of buying him out so it’s easy to see why they believe they can do the same with Iguodala. However, Iguodala’s contract is going to be a lot harder to move, particularly given the teams interested in trading for him.
The perennial sixth man of the year candidate is making over $17 million this year. The Rockets are far above the salary cap and, barring a Chris Paul trade to open up space, would have to send out someone like Eric Gordon or Clint Capela in order to match salaries.
The Mavericks have cap space, depending on the timing of some of their signings so they may able to trade for Iguodala without much maneuvering. But if they sign Danny Green to a big contract (they are one of seemingly three teams interested in the NBA champion), they may need to send back Tim Hardaway, Jr.’s contract to match salaries.
In short, it’s going to be difficult, but not impossible, for the Grizzlies to find a trade partner to take Iguodala. And given that most teams will likely assume Memphis will buy out Iguodala if they cannot trade him soon, it’s hard to believe they’ll find any significant assets on the market. Obviously, the Grizzlies are trying to drum up interest in the forward as much as possible.
Iguodala is a former client of Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka so it’s safe to say he will be interested in joining the Lakers if he has the option. The Lakers, who are waiting on Kawhi Leonard’s decision before filling out the bulk of their roster, would find themselves a steal if they can sign him to a veteran minimum deal.
