The brief Tyreke Evans era appears to be over in Memphis.
The Memphis Grizzlies seem intent to keep Evans out of the lineup until trade rumors become a reality for the veteran swingman. With Mike Conley out for the season after surgery and the rudderless Grizzlies not going anywhere in particular, Evans is almost certain to be flipped for assets before he hits free agency this summer.
Evans has put up 19 points, five rebounds and fives assists on average this year, and he’s seen some interest in the trade market, including from the Sixers. At 18-31 this season and sitting just above the Lakers in the Western Conference, Memphis is looking to move Evans to a contender in need of help on the wing, and until they find a deal for Evans it seems they are OK with not letting him play, effectively ending his run in Memphis after just 46 games.
https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/958844581436645383
https://twitter.com/CAGrizBeat/status/958847005270388737
It’s clear the Grizzlies are committed to keeping Conley and Marc Gasol in Memphis to build around for now, but would like to sell high on Evans considering his strong play and the unlikeliness of them being able to afford him in free agency this summer.
Wherever Evans ends up, let’s hope the move is made sooner rather than later. It’s tough to sit out when you’re healthy, let alone when you know the axe is about to fall on your tenure with a franchise.
