All-star center Marc Gasol will reportedly be returning in time for NBA training camp set this Sept. 27 in Memphis, a big sigh of relief for a team that seems to be in shambles.
The Memphis Grizzlies felt the loss of Marc Gasol last season, someone who was forced out due to a broke foot. With the Spaniard out, the Grizzlies failed to survive and saw a disappointing end to their 2015-16 NBA season.
Marc Gasol cleared
According to the Commercial Appeal, Marc Gasol has been cleared to play following rehab for his broken foot. Gasol underwent rehab in Spain but has now returned to Memphis to rejoin his Grizzlies teammates in strength and conditioning exercises. He has reportedly also joined in pickup games.
With this big development, there is no assurance that Marc Gasol will get the same extensive minutes at least in the early goings. At 32, the Grizzlies are expected to follow a cautious approach with Gasol as he tries to work back his foot to full strength. Hence, the Grizzlies will have to survive with a limited Marc Gasol in the lineup which means head coach David Fizdale will have to turn to other stars such as Mike Conley and Zach Randolph.
Conley will be in the spotlight this season after signing a fresh five-year pact worth $153 million. Adding more sock to the Grizzlies was the acquisition of Chandler Parsons who last played for the Dallas Mavericks.
Zach Randolph trade coming?
Zach Randolph will be another player in focus after coming off a struggling year. At 36, rumors of a possible trade involving Z-Bo have circulated as the all-star forward plays out his final season. He is set to make $10 million this season but the Grizzlies may eventually try to unload the aging player.
The Grizzlies are once again favorites this season but their main core is aging. Randolph leads that list followed by Gasol (31). Could a trade happen this coming NBA season?
