NBA Rumors: Andre Iguodala is unlikely to join the Los Angeles Lakers
What's the rumor?
Andre Iguodala was sent to the Memphis Grizzlies during the offseason as the Golden State Warriors created the necessary cap space to complete a sign-and-trade for D'Angelo Russell. Nevertheless, at 35, Iguodala doesn't match Memphis' current timeline, and the veteran is not currently with the team as a trade is worked on.
Iguodala is making $17.2 million for the current season, which makes a trade difficult, and it has been rumored that he will eventually sign for the Los Angeles Lakers following a buyout. However, during an appearance ESPN's NBA Countdown (via Bleacher Report), Adrian Wojnarowski revealed that the Grizzlies remain determined to find a trade partner:
"The message that Memphis has been delivering to the entire league...' You are going to have to trade for him. We are not buying him out. He's not going to be on the free agent market"
In case you didn't know...
Before being traded to the Grizzlies earlier this year, Iguodala played a significant role as the Warriors made five straight trips to the NBA Finals. During 413 regular-season appearances (85 starts) for Golden State, Iguodala averaged 7.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per contest.
The heart of the matter
Iguodala is nearing the end of his career, although his resurgent performances during the 2019 playoffs demonstrated that he can still contribute on a contending team. However, if the Grizzlies are unwilling to work towards a buyout, the Lakers don't have the resources or cap space to complete a trade, which eliminates any possibility of a move to Los Angeles.
What's next?
While Iguodala's future is unlikely to be sorted out anytime soon, the Los Angeles Lakers will be in action tomorrow night as they take on the struggling San Antonio Spurs.
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