5 Questions that need to be answered at Memphis Grizzlies Media Day

Will Memphis Grizzlies extend Brandon Clarke before October 17?

We are officially less than a month away from the NBA-imposed deadline for rookie contract extensions to be signed from the class of 2019.

I’ve previously outlined why Brandon Clarke might be so inclined to hold off on re-signing now in hopes that he has a huge impact on the team in Jackson’s absence and thereby boosting his earning potential and negotiating power.

But, there’s also comfort in knowing you have a for-sure deal in your back pocket in case something dramatic happens.

Will Zach Kleiman or Taylor Jenkins send some messages through their media availability to help persuade Clarke to re-sign before Oct. 17? Will any reporters ask about his thought process about the major decision on the horizon?

If Clarke and the team can’t come to an agreement, he’ll become a restricted free agent next summer, leaving the possibility of having to deal with the awkwardness that comes with a player signing an offer sheet with an opposing team, only to be matched by the incumbent team.

We saw this very thing play out this offseason with Suns big man Deandre Ayton. Clarke won’t be playing chicken with the Grizzlies over a max contract, but he’ll be in line for a substantial pay raise.

If an opposing team overpays him on an offer sheet, the Grizzlies may not be able to match it if they wish to also re-sign Steven Adams, Dillon Brooks and prepare an extension for Desmond Bane.