The NBA trade deadline happens on Feb. 6 and several teams are already busy mapping out their plans. Major player movements are expected with names like Kevin Love, Kyle Kuzma and Andre Iguodala in the circle.
In the case of Iguodala, it appears the chances of him playing this NBA season may not be known until next month. Most believe that the Memphis Grizzlies will end up buying out the 35-year-old cager - likely to happen after Feb. 6.
In the meantime, Memphis strongly feels that a trade for the three-time NBA champion can still happen. Counting the days, they have around three weeks or so, Real GM reported.
"The word on the street is that they really do believe that they're going to find a trade for Iguodala," he said.
For those who have followed this story since the start of the season, it sounds like old news. But the stand of the Grizzlies is understandable. Rather than end up with nothing, they are keeping their fingers crossed of getting something in return for Iguodala. Memphis acquired the 2015 NBA Finals MVP last offseason from the Golden State Warriors who were making room for D'Angelo Russell.
Several teams have expressed interest in Iguodala. Among the ballclubs who have inquired include the Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets, and the Los Angeles Clippers. But like the majority of teams, the aforementioned cast would prefer to wait for a buyout than give up their current assets.
Trading for Iguodala now means that the team that gets him would have to cough up $17 million for this season. The 9th overall pick of the 2004 NBA Draft will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer.
Aside from the potential buyout of Iguodala's contract, there is the future that NBA teams are looking at. At 35, there is no question that the NBA veteran is at the point where he could choose to wrap up his career. There is a big chance he will return to the Warriors next season, a fitting place to exit. In short, his next team could be a short stop before heading back into free agency.
Iguodala holds career averages of 12.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per Basketball-Reference.com. Without a doubt, he can be of big help on both ends of the floor. Playoff-bound teams will benefit immensely even if Iggy comes off the bench. The only question now is which team will take that chance on the 6-foot-6 swingman.
