The Memphis Grizzlies have been in talks with the Los Angeles Clippers about a sign-and-trade involving Tony Allen. What would potential packages look like?
Most Memphis Grizzlies fans are already upset about the departure of Zach Randolph. Wednesday morning trade rumors about Marc Gasol doesn’t make anything better. When things couldn’t sound any worse, it did. Per Turner Sports’ David Aldridge, the Los Angeles Clippers have been in sign-and-trade talks about Tony Allen:
Clips, looking to bolster wing after Redick departure/Crawford trade, have engaged Grizzlies in potential s/t for Tony Allen, per source.
— David Aldridge (@davidaldridgedc) July 5, 2017
This is tragic news for any Grizzly fan. It’s sad enough to see a cultural icon like Tony Allen depart, but if he went to the evil Los Angeles Clippers, the city will be in shambles.
There are currently zero names involved from the Clippers side. In a dream scenario, the Clippers would give the Grizzlies either Lou Williams or Patrick Beverley. Both players would bring a special skill-set to the table – the former brings a scoring punch and the latter defensive tenacity. Realistically though, the Grizzlies would receive someone like Wes Johnson, Brandon Bass or Raymond Felton.
However, with Doc Rivers, you never know what he’d deal to get the player he wants. He has an affection for former Celtic players – you know like what Chris Wallace has for former McDonald’s All-Americans and former Kansas Jayhawk players. In fact, Rivers gave up Lance Stephenson and a future first-round pick to get three months of Jeff Green. Maybe, he gives up something too valuable for Tony Allen.
No matter what the return is, losing Tony Allen would be a huge blow to this team and city. He’s become a folk legend around the city of Memphis. His catchphrases “All Heart, Grit, Grind” and “First-Team All-Defense” are great marketing slogans, but they also embody both the city and Tony Allen himself.
With Zach Randolph’s departure and the impending decision on Tony Allen looming, the Grizzlies are in the middle of a change.
Next: 5 Best Landing Spots for Tony Allen
Brace yourself, Grizz Nation.