This summer’s free agency class may lack the major superstars of last year’s, but there are still some very good players available and one of the best is Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol. An unrestricted free agent, Gasol will be sought after by numerous teams this off-season.
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The New York Knicks are expected to be one of Gasol’s biggest suitors this summer, but according to Chris Sheridan of Sheridan Hoops, Gasol has already ruled out playing for them:
A little birdie who knows of what he speaks tells me Gasol has already ruled out playing for the New York Knicks. It’s nothing personal with Phil Jackson or that consummate New Yorker, Jim Dolan (gag). It’s a matter of money. He can get a five-year deal to stay in Memphis, where he attended high school. After taxes, that will be worth more than twice what he would get from New York.”
The chances of Gasol leaving Memphis were always slim. The Grizzlies are currently second in a ridiculously difficult Western Conference, can offer him the most money, and it is his home. Many teams will pursue, but it is likely to be an unsuccessful attempt.
Of course this is a rumor, but the reasons for ruling out the Knicks could also be applied to the Los Angeles Lakers as well. That likely won’t stop the Lakers and others from pursuing him, but Gasol is staying in Memphis in all likelihood.
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