NBA Trade Rumors 2014 Updates: Memphis Grizzlies Could Trade Zach Randolph To New Orleans Pelicans For Ryan Anderson

By Paul John Rivera| Dec 13, 2013

The Memphis Grizzlies are reportedly shopping Zach Randolph and his most likely destination is the New Orleans Pelicans, NBA analyst Jared Zwerling reported citing several sources.

According to reports, the Grizzlies could send the veteran power forward to the Pelicans for sweet-shooting forward Ryan Anderson in a deal that could happen before the trade deadline this season.

Last month, Randolph expressed a strong desire to stay in Memphis, telling ESPN that he would like to win a championship in Memphis and end his career with the team.

"I'd like to be here. I'd like to retire here. You never know. If I've got to make some sacrifices to be here, I would. I still can play. I can still help a team out. I want to win a championship. I've made all the money in the world. I just want to win. I don't know yet [about opting in or opting out], but Memphis is my home," Randolph said.

However, sources said that the Grizzlies are considering trading the 32-year-old veteran because they are unwilling to absorb the $16.9 million player option of Randolph for the 2014-15 NBA season.

By trading Randolph to the Pelicans, the Grizzlies could focus on retaining emerging power forward Ed Davis, who is set to become a restricted free agent after the season, while also adding another scoring option in Anderson.

On the other hand, the Pelicans could add on an additional post threat that could complement Anthony Davis once he recovers from the nondisplaced fracture in his left hand. Randolph is averaging 15.9 points and 9.2 rebounds in his 13th season in the NBA, while Anderson, who is playing in his sixth season in the league, is averaging 21.7 points and 5.6 rebounds this season.

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