Memphis Grizzlies Roundtable: FA Predictions on Tony Allen

Nov 4, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) guards Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 4, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) guards Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

With the free agency circus rolling through, we give their predictions on what happens with the Memphis Grizzlies’ free agents. Will they retain Tony Allen?

The Memphis Grizzlies are caught in a pickle. They have very little money to acquire a big-name free agent like Gordon Hayward or Blake Griffin. They also have four free agents to decide on. Do they move away from “Grit ‘n’ Grind” and let Tony Allen and Zach Randolph walk? Or do they try for one (or two, or three) last ride?

Tony Allen was recently named Second Team All-Defense, showing that his defense is still top-notch. However, at 35, the Grizzlies have to decide what to do with the shooting guard. If they can bring back for the right price, keep him. If not, see ya! 

Tony Allen even said at the exit interviews that he doesn’t want to break the bank. And, the Memphis Grizzlies agree:

Given this interesting piece of information, our writers give their predictions on what happens with the “Grindfather,” Tony Allen.

Tony Allen returns on veteran’s minimum

No one really knows what the market looks like for Tony Allen. A shooting guard that can’t shoot isn’t the hottest commodity, but a defensive stopper is one. Even at 35, TA has proven that he can change the game with his defense and hustle. If the Grizzlies want to stray away from “Grit ‘n’ Grind,” letting him walk is recommended. However, at the right price, you might as well keep him.

Side-note: If the Memphis Grizzlies do re-sign TA, they must acquire another shooting guard that could either start or command more minutes. They can’t win with Tony Allen playing 25-30 minutes a game anymore. — Parker Fleming.

More from Grizzlies Free Agency

Tony Allen said he wants to return to Memphis and that he didn’t want to break the bank. With that and the Grizzlies’ limited options at the shooting guard position, another year with the Grindfather is likely. — Mark Krebs

Parker and Mark are both correct, but it’s time for Tony to take a role off the bench. I would love to have Tony come off the bench and shut down the team’s best player. He’s one of the best defenders of all time, and they don’t have many options at shooting guard. If it’s for the veteran’s minimum, I’ll be cool with it. — Jerrod Smith

Do you want to see Tony Allen come back? Comment your thoughts below.