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Ex-Grizzlies star signs with arch-rivals, joins forces with 9-time All-Star

Jan 21, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 21, 2022; Denver, Colorado, USA; Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Over the years, the Memphis Grizzlies have rostered some seriously gifted players. While their head honchos of today such as Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane currently reign supreme in Bluff City, since their arrival back in 2001-02 the franchise has been blessed with a plethora of tremendous talents, many of whom are still gracing the hardwood

One particular former player, Rudy Gay, had spent the majority of this summer searching for new residency, for he entered the unrestricted free-agent market back in July following a two-year stint with the Utah Jazz.

While he received very few bites out in the open waters over the past three months, recently he was reeled in by one of Memphis’ arch-rivals, as ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported on September 27 that sources informed him the veteran had agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Golden State Warriors.

Former Grizzlies star Rudy Gay signs one-year deal with Golden State Warriors

Wojnarowski would explain in his report that the signing does not guarantee Gay will wind up playing for the franchise during the 2023-24 campaign, but, rather, he’ll be granted an opportunity to earn a roster spot during their upcoming training camp and during the preseason.

Despite the sour taste the signing may leave in the mouths of Grizzlies fans, should he still have anything left in the tank his fit on the Dubs seems to make quite a bit of sense.

With their lofty payroll coupled with their need to flesh out their roster, buying low on the likes of Gay makes quite a bit of sense.

Though his stint in Salt Lake City was far from astounding (wrapped up his tenure averaging 6.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists), he still showed signs of being a sound two-way contributor in a limited role.

On top of this, his leadership could be of great service to this championship-hopeful Warriors roster, as this is an attribute that has been well-noted throughout the years.

While it may be weird seeing the former Grizzlies stud suiting up for Golden State (averaged 17.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 steals through seven seasons), it is delightful to see Gay back on an NBA roster.

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