The Memphis Grizzlies made plenty of hard decisions this offseason, one involving Zach Randolph’s free agency. Did the Grizz make the right call?
The Memphis Grizzlies made a hard decision that shattered the hearts of many fans: moving on from Zach Randolph.
It’s definitely not easy. All the put-backs. The jab steps. The beatings on Blake Griffin every match-up. It was all exhilarating. The emotion felt whenever ZBo stepped on the court is indescribable – like something out of a movie. He embodied a culture and became a folk legend around Memphis. Once he hangs it up, his jersey will be the first fly in the rafters. Nobody will wear number 50 again, and honestly not a single soul could touch what Randolph did for Memphis.
However, as the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end.” Most sports team had to go through this moment. It was time for Boston to move on from Paul Pierce to look towards the future. The New York Yankees essentially forced A-Rod into retirement to focus on the future. Teams have to move on eventually.
As we review the Grizzlies’ offseason moves, Parker Fleming (@PAKA_FLOCKA), Nathan Chester (@BigNateChester), Jake Finnen (@HalfCourtJester) and Ryan Patterson (@_ryanjp) share their thoughts on letting ZBo walk.
Grade: B+
It’s tough to harp on his departure at this point in the offseason. We have yet to re-sign Green, and Jarell Martin has yet to prove himself worthy of the starting PF spot.
But I will say, I saw this coming.
Despite his solid contributions from the bench this past season, I think ZBo realized he wasn’t getting any younger, and was looking to get more money than our front office was willing to offer him. I wish the best of luck to him in his career and won’t ever forget his role as not only a member of the Grizzlies, but a Memphian. — Ryan Patterson
Related Story: Twitter Reactions to ZBo Leaving
Grade: B
They should have let him go years ago. The Grizzlies needed pace and versatility, and Zach Randolph is the perfect veteran for a team needing leadership. — Jake Finnen
It was about time for him to go, so the Grizzlies can truly move into the future. I hope he drops 20 and 10 on JaMychal Green in a Kings loss this year though. — Nathan Chester
Grade: INC
I won’t grade this move until I know who’s the starting power forward on opening night. On the other hand, paying him twelve million dollars a year isn’t ideal. — Parker Fleming
Next: What ZBo meant to Memphis
What are your thoughts on Zach Randolph leaving Memphis? Comment below.