Marc Gasol, DeAndre Jordan center of trade rumors
As the Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Clippers face each other, both Marc Gasol and DeAndre Jordan are the centers … around NBA trade rumors.
Marc Gasol and DeAndre Jordan has been an interesting matchups for years. Of course, they’ve had their playoff battles — where each team has won one series. Their styles clash. DeAndre Jordan may been seen as the better center because of his efficiency around the rim, rim protection and world-class athleticism. Marc — the center who has really been better — is a high-IQ big man who has range on his jumper, can protect the rim just as well and pass like a guard.
These two players have been the centers of this team. Literally.
Now, as both teams are destined for a new era, Gasol and Jordan are some of the biggest names in trade rumors.
For the Grizzlies’ big man, they really started after Gordan Hayward went to Boston, but Kyrie’s arrival erased a lot of their assets (maybe if the Grizzlies get their pick back). Since Fizdale’s firing and the Grizzlies’ implosion, the trade rumors started to heat up. Gasol insists that as long as the team remains dedicated to winning, he won’t request a trade.
For DeAndre Jordan and the Clippers, it might be more of “let’s trade him now, so we don’t come away with nothing if he walks this summer.” Jordan is a free agent this summer and is probably expecting a huge payday that the Clippers won’t want to pay. There’s speculation that the Cavs are looking to add Jordan, but it probably won’t include the elusive Brooklyn pick.
Where each player could possibly end up remains to be seen, but as the trade deadline approaches, pay attention to these two players.
Related Story: Grizzlies should deal Marc Gasol
What to expect in tonight’s game
This game might get ugly pretty quick. Each of these teams are simply a shell of what they could be.
As we all know, Mike Conley has been hurt for the past month. The Grizzlies have about two weeks until his next evaluation, so his timetable for a return is unknown. Brandan Wright just returned last game against the Suns, scoring eight points and grabbing four rebounds in 20 minutes of action. Wayne Selden’s return should come soon as he’s been recalled from the Memphis Hustle. With this season going to shambles — and a possible tank on the way — it’ll be nice to see if the young wing can build off his strong Summer League performance to become a solid piece for this team.
Memphis Grizzlies: “Our injury situation is rough.”
Los Angeles Clippers: “Hold my beer.”
The Clippers have had it rough this season. They’ve been without starters Danilo Gallinari, Blake Griffin and Patrick Beverley for at least a month. Gallinari and Griffin’s returns may come within the next month, but their point guard may be out for the rest of the season.
There are players on this team receiving significant minutes that may not touch the floor in normal situations. For that reason, it may get ugly.
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But hey, at least we have Marc Gasol versus DeAndre Jordan yet again. It’s a chance to reminisce on the good ole days.
Game Info
Who: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Where: FedEx Forum – Memphis, TN
When: 7:00 PM – ct
How to watch: Fox Sports Southeast
How to listen: 92.9 ESPN – Memphis