Memphis Grizzlies: Is a Chris Bosh reunion with Dave Fizdale a possibility?

Now that the Heat have moved on from Chris Bosh, should Dave Fizdale look to reunite with the All-Star big man and bring him to the Memphis Grizzlies?

After experiencing blood clots in his lungs over the past several seasons, Chris Bosh has officially been released by the Miami Heat and will be a free agent. This settlement allows his deal to not count against their cap space but still ensures that he gets his full contract money. Given the current free agent situation at the power forward and Dave Fizdale’s South Beach connection, should the Memphis Grizzlies pursue Bosh?

Right now, JaMychal Green and Zach Randolph are both bound for the free agent market. The former is primed for a payday after a breakout season. His ability to switch onto guards, guard multiple positions and shoot from deep is what every coach and front office salivates over. The latter has been a franchise cornerstone for the past decade but has glaring deficiencies in his game. After years of starting, he was moved to the bench and thrived, averaging 14.1 points and 8.2 rebounds. However, he’s a liability on defense, and that makes it hard to sign him for a big deal.

Because of the Grizzlies’ risky cap situation, at least one of them has to go. However, if Bosh is truly healthy, why not let sign him for nothing more than the bi-annual exception and preserve the cap space for other pieces?

Why the Grizzlies should sign Bosh

If the Memphis Grizzlies could land Chris Bosh, they certainly won’t be breaking the bank. After a life-threatening health issue, teams won’t be loading buses off cash for him. If the Grizzlies used their bi-annual exception on him (a 2-year deal for $4M per year), they won’t be risking near as much.

Even if Bosh comes back at 70 percent, he’d still be an upgrade over both Randolph and Green. Once LeBron left for home, he put up scoring numbers that rivaled his Toronto days (21.1 in 2014-15, 19.1 in 2015-16). A 70 percent Bosh could at least score 12-15 points a game, which would give Gasol and Conley a great third option.

His offense versatility allows him to play either the 4 or the 5. If the Grizzlies want to go big, they could slot Bosh next to Gasol. In doing so, he has the foot-speed and athleticism to guard quicker guys and switch onto guards. As the 5, he could space the floor and play fast without giving up any size.

Finally, Dave Fizdale knows how to use Bosh the best. The two spent six season in Miami together, where Bosh transformed his game to become a dangerous threat in this league. If Fizdale could land a meeting with him, it might be hard for him to pass on a deal.

Why the Grizzlies Shouldn’t Sign Him

Health. Chris Bosh’s situation isn’t a normal injury. Blood clots are scary, especially when they’re in your lungs.

Closing Remarks

If the Grizzlies have a chance to sign Bosh for a good deal, they shouldn’t hesitate. When he’s at his best, he’s an All-NBA talent, one that could bolster their title odds. Having him as a third or even fourth option is deadly for just about any team in the league.

Regardless of where he ends up, seeing Bosh make a smooth comeback would be great for the league. However, first and foremost, his health is a number one priority.

Best of luck to Chris Bosh.

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