Santi Aldama’s success could complicate the future of two Grizzlies players

Power may shift to Memphis Grizzlies in Brandon Clarke contract negotiations

With the clock ticking down until the rookie extension deadline, the Memphis Grizzlies are in perfect position to play hard ball with Brandon Clarke in their negotiations for a contract extension. Clarke and the Grizzlies have until Oct. 17 to come to an agreement or risk losing the former Gonzaga standout to restricted free agency after the 2022-23 season.

With Santi Aldama hitting his stride in the preseason, the Grizzlies suddenly have a lot more bargaining power with Clarke. While he does serve as a great spark plug off the bench, he’s limited to scoring layups and chip shots. He can play great defense and rebound the ball at a high level, however.

But, if Clarke heads to restricted free agency, he’ll likely find that his value outside of the Grizzlies is less than it is with the Grizzlies. Not many teams will want to shell out major cash for a forward that can’t shoot three pointers or can’t create his own shot. The Grizzlies value him because they have ample shooters that can fill in the gaps of Clarke’s weaknesses when he’s on the floor.

You’ve likely heard of a 3-and-D player that shoots threes and plays defense at a high level. But, have you heard of a D-and-E player? Clarke is quintessentially a D-and-E player, serving up bountiful amounts of energy and athleticism that complement his defensive output.  There aren’t many of those in the NBA, but with such limited scope, there’s definitely a dollar amount the Grizzlies won’t want to cross to retain him on a roster that is stuffed full of capable talent.

Aldama’s arrival this season will hurt Clarke’s negotiating power at the end of the day. If they can’t get a deal worked out, maybe they’d be better served in trying to deal him (or Tillman) to free up the logjam at forward and get some much needed scoring added to the bench.