Rudy Gay's imminent trade has been made clear, but what hasn't been discussed is what exactly the Memphis Grizzlies expected to receive in return.
Rudy Gay trade: Pistons, Mavericks loom as possible third teams in deal
The Toronto Raptors and Memphis Grizzlies have long sought a third team to get involved in a trade involving Memphis forward Rudy Gay.
Spruce Derden-US PRESSWIRE
Both Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports and ESPN's Marc Stein reported Wednesday that Gay is about to be shipped to the Toronto Raptors along with Hamed Haddadi, and Toronto is expected to part ways with Jose Calderon and Ed Davis, the latter of whom will be shipped to Memphis.
Calderon's destination has been the unknown part as well. But on Wednesday, Stein reported that the Detroit Pistons and Dallas Mavericks are the potential third teams involved in the blockbuster deal. Now, it is apparent who the Grizzlies are coveting to replace Gay.
It appears that Memphis could receive Tayshaun Prince or even Corey Maggette in the deal, though Prince would be the more likely option. Wojnarowski tweeted that the Grizzlies' front office was making calls to gather background information on Prince, the veteran small forward who at first glance would appear to fit in Memphis' starting lineup without rocking the boat.
He is a capable offensive force, averaging 11.7 points and shooting the three-pointer at an accurate 43.4 percent this season. And he’ll also fill Gay’s void on the defensive end, where his length and smarts will fit in well for the Grizzlies, who at 29-15 are in fourth place in the Western Conference.
Earlier in the day, SB Nation's Pistons blog, Detroit Bad Boys, suggested the Pistons get involved in a three-team scenario, though it included more than just Prince.
Stein reports that the Grizzlies are also interested in Dallas' Vince Carter, though the Mavericks aren't too keen on giving up the veteran. Carter's career has been kept alive by a second-wind that involves less minutes (25 per game), more defense and solid three-point shooting. Carter's numbers are similar to Prince's at 12.4 points per game and 3.9 rebounds per night.
Carter has one year remaining on his contract, and ESPN Dallas’ Tim MacMahon writes why exactly the Mavs would be a good third option for the Gay deal to work.
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