Memphis Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley is a free agent, and a highly-coveted one. He’s the best on the market at his position, and many teams (e.g. the Knicks, Nets, and perhaps Jazz) should be bending over backwards trying to sign him. The Grizzlies’ VP and GM have both expressed supreme confidence that Conley will remain with the team. Tony Allen even threatened him; all hands are on deck in Memphis! And yet, the confidence of the front office is wavering, reports ESPN’s Ian Begley:
Here’s a bit of potentially good news for those Knicks fans interested in free agent Mike Conley: some members of the Grizzlies front office are growing a bit concerned about the possibility of Conley leaving in free agency, per a source with knowledge of the situation. Memphis, which plans on using a video featuring Grizzlies part-owner Justin Timberlake as part of its recruiting pitch, per a source, can offer Conley a five-year deal worth approximately $124 million. Other clubs can ink Conley to a max contract for four years worth approximately $92 million. Both Knicks coach Jeff Hornacek and GM Steve Mills has mentioned point guard as a position of emphasis for New York this offseason
It’s no secret that the Knicks want, and need an upgrade at the point guard spot. Jose Calderon just ain’t gonna cut it. Of course, the same can be said for Brooklyn (Shane Larkin and Donald Sloan? Please). If Conley does leave Memphis, it will be fascinating to see where he ends up. So many teams could use a talented, high-IQ point guard like him.
