Memphis isn't willing to let Andre Iguodala walk away for nothing.
The Grizzlies are "refusing" to buy out the forward's contract before the 2019-20 season and want him to report to camp, according to The Athletic.
Sources: Memphis wants three-time champion Andre Iguodala to report to training camp and is refusing right now to engage in buyout, which would prevent Iguodala from finishing a Hall of Fame career on his terms because this may be his final NBA season.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 9, 2019
Memphis acquired Iguodala from the Warriors in a trade this offseason and was reportedly shopping him for a future first-round pick this summer. But no team was willing to part with a valuable asset in exchange for the 35-year-old wing.
Some earlier reports expected the Grizzlies to buy out Iguodala's deal after they doing the same with Dwight Howard's deal in August. But Iguodala brings too much to the table, The Athletic noted, even if his playing days are numbered.
Iguodala is VP of NBPA, one of league’s most respected and desires a contender at this stage. Young, rebuilding Grizzlies received a valuable 2024 1st from Golden State in Iguodala trade, and after Dwight Howard buyout, were expected to eventually have same talks with Iguodala. https://t.co/feAQl4Jbv0
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 9, 2019
Iguodala hinted at his impending retirement toward the end of last season.
"I have a good idea how much longer I want to play," Iguodala said then. "I'm keeping it to myself, but it's going to be soon. I can play four or five more years. But I won't."
In the meantime, Iguodala could still help Memphis' young core with his leadership, basketball IQ and defensive prowess.
The Grizzlies have lottery picks from the 2017, 2018 and 2019 NBA Drafts in Ja Morant, Josh Jackson and Jaren Jackson, respectively, as well as Brandon Clarke.
They could all learn from a three-time champion like Iguodala should he remain with the team this season.
Iguodala averaged only 5.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.2 assists for Golden State last season, but the versatile defender has drawn interest from the Lakers, Rockets, Mavericks, Clippers and Nuggets.
He only has one year remaining on his current contract.
