Memphis has four players whose contracts are expiring this offseason, with Lamar Stevens, Luke Kennard, and Marvin Bagley III set to become unrestricted free agents. Santi Aldama is set to become a restricted free agent along with two-way guards Cam Spencer and Yuki Kawamura.
Aldama is the most important name in that group as he was the team's best bench player this season, averaging career highs in points (12.5), rebounds (6.4), field goal percentage (48.3%), and three-point percentage (36.8%). At 24 years old, the former first-round draft pick from Loyola University (Maryland) will be looking for a payday as a strong offensive threat.
However, the Grizzlies could be limited in what they could offer him if they deemed him worthy of being retained. A potential suitor is one the Grizzlies are familiar with when it comes to making and discussing moves with.
Aldama could be offered $20 Million per year
Every scenario of the Grizzlies' offseason roster construction situation begins with Jaren Jackson Jr. Trading Marcus Smart at the trade deadline has allowed Memphis to be below the salary cap, but Jackson Jr.'s potential extension will take up their cap room.
Since Santi Aldama is a restricted free agent, the team can match any deal he receives from another team if they tender his $5.9 million one-year qualifying offer as expected. However, has he shown enough to match a potential deal that could place the Grizzlies close to or over the second tax apron?
ESPN's Bobby Marks noted in his NBA Offseason Guide for the Memphis Grizzlies that he thinks a team with cap space like the Brooklyn Nets could target a player of Aldama's caliber. The offer he mentioned was 4 years, $80 Million, which would equate to $20 Million per season.
While it feels like the Grizzlies have belief in Santi to be a real player for this team, he doesn't fit the mold of a tough player that the city embodies. Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman acknowledged the type of players the team needs and the city caters to in his exit interview media session.
Although Santi has a finesse style in nature, his numbers speak for themselves, as his production and age warrant keeping a player like him. At the very least, the Grizzlies can't lose Santi without a return in compensation if they decide he isn't worth a certain price point.
Memphis' offseason gets more intriguing by the day as their decision on multiple players will determine if this team can truly contend next season and beyond after a disappointing end this season.