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Thaddeus Young Opts Out, Could Fit with Memphis Grizzlies?

By Christian Dudley

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Apr 11, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Thaddeus Young (21) drives to the basket against Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) during the game at FedExForum. Memphis Grizzlies beat Philadelphia 76ers 117 – 95. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

Now that he is a free-agent, could forward Thaddeus Young become a perfect fit with the Memphis Grizzlies?

The Brooklyn Nets’ Thaddeus Young addressed his player option on his contract yesterday by deciding to opt out of the final year. This makes him a free-agent. Yes, Young turned down $10.2 million in guaranteed cash to choose better surroundings.

What is special about Young in relation to the Memphis Grizzlies?

For starters, Thad Young grew up in Memphis, Tennessee–where he played high school basketball. He even lives in the Memphis area during the offseason. This is a major factor that should hold some weight.

Secondly, Young has mentioned in the past that he would not mind at all to suit up for the Memphis Grizzlies. You would think that there would be mutual interest between the two parties because the Grizz desperately need scoring options to bolster the bench and Thad would be a great counterpart as a reserve. He could assume a starting position if Zach Randolph needs rest from time to time and in a year or two, he could even swap roles on the team with Z-Bo.

Apr 19, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Brooklyn Nets head coach Lionel Hollins reacts with forward Thaddeus Young (30) against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Nets 99-92. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Being as Marc Gasol is expected to sign on with the Grizzlies for additional years this summer, the Grizz may not have much additional money to throw around this offseason. If the Grizz become seriously interested and if Thad Young realizes a golden opportunity that is potentially in front of him, I would not be surprised to see Young accept a lesser money offer from Memphis to sign with the veteran contending team. It makes sense on paper for both Thad Young and the Grizzlies.

Another fun fact is that Thaddeus has been coached by former Grizzlies’ Head Coach Lionel Hollins in his short tenure with the Brooklyn Nets. Most likely, he has already observed some of the same coaching and play sets from Hollins that the Memphis Grizzlies have run in the past and may still run today. Even though Hollins left town, his understudy–Dave Joerger, remains as the leader of the Grizz.

Young has already turned down more than $10 million, you would think that he would be willing to sign for a great price with a winning and/or contending franchise that offers him a great role on the team. The Memphis Grizzlies fit the criteria.

Grizz Nation, would you welcome a Thaddeus Young addition to the roster? How would you rate his value on the NBA free-agency market?

Continue to check Beale Street Bears for the latest news and info regarding your Memphis Grizzlies’ offseason!

Go Grizz!

Next: Have the Grizzlies made a Draft promise to a prospect?

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