KEY POINTS

  • Iguodala ready to sit out rest of 2019-20 NBA season
  • Grizzlies have no plans to buy out Iguodala
  • Long rest could work in favor of Iguodala

NBA fans are eager to see where Andre Iguodala will play next. But if the Memphis Grizzlies continue to hold out, there is that looming possibility that the 36-year-old may not see action at all this 2019-20 season.

With the Feb. 6 trade deadline almost here, the Grizzlies remain in waiting for pitches to the three-time NBA champion. So far, nothing has gained ground and this leaves Memphis with only two options. One is that he will be bought out. The other is that he remains with the team although seeing him suit up seems a bit remote.

Should that be the case, Iguodala could end up sitting out the rest of the 2019-20 NBA season. According to a report from David Aldridge of The Athletic, it appears that will be the case. Citing league sources, the 2015 NBA Finals MVP is prepared to sit out the rest of the season if the Grizzlies fail to orchestrate at trade by Feb. 6.

Several teams are being linked to Iguodala. The most notable one are the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers. In a previous report, it was discussed how the 6-foot-6 cager had no preference on which team to join. But what is clear is that Iggy has plans to return to the Golden State Warriors next. Hence, any team he ends up with may be nothing more than a rental.

With the Grizzlies staying firm on their decision in preferring a trade over a buyout, Iguodala could end up taking a one-season leave of absence. The one-time NBA All-Star admits that the lull has allowed him to recharge after a rigorous five-year NBA Finals run with the Dubs. So the more he gets some rest could also work to his advantage.

Also, it lessens complications on his end. Once the current season comes to close, Iguodala can return to Dub City and fulfill his wish. Turning 37 next NBA season, it will be interesting if this would be his pro basketball career swan song. It is a possibility although winning one more NBA title could make his send-off sweeter.

Andre Iguodala
Andre Iguodala #9 of the Golden State Warriors speaks to the media during the 2018 NBA Finals Media Day at Oracle Arena in Oakland, California, May 30, 2018. Ezra Shaw/Getty Images