Grizzlies now interested in trading Iguodala

The Memphis Grizzlies are looking for trade partners in order to deal new forward Andre Iguodala and do not intend to buy him out before the season, ESPN reported Thursday.

The Grizzlies acquired Iguodala this week in a trade with the Golden State Warriors, who were looking to shed his $17.2 million salary for the upcoming season in order to acquire D'Angelo Russell. A contract buyout of Iguodala, which would allow contenders to court him, was speculated for the rebuilding Grizzlies.

But the Grizzlies are reportedly now looking at the 35-year-old veteran as a way to add young players in a trade as they rebuild their roster.

Memphis also acquired a first-round draft pick along with Iguodala as Russell went to the Warriors and Kevin Durant went to the Brooklyn Nets. The Grizz also acquired Grayson Allen, Kyle Korver and Jae Crowder from the Utah Jazz in a trade for guard Mike Conley earlier this offseason.

Memphis then shipped Korver to the Phoenix Suns for Josh Jackson, De'Anthony Melton and two future second-round picks on Wednesday. Korver is expected to be waived by the Suns.

The Grizzlies are likely to explore other young players or draft picks in a trade by including Iguodala, who is known for his perimeter defense and helped the Warriors to five consecutive NBA Finals appearances and three championships in that stretch.

Iguodala, 35, averaged 5.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 68 games (13 starts) for the Warriors last season, his sixth with the team and his 15th in the NBA.