Timberwolves might trade for Rudy Gay
by Administrator on Nov.30, 2009, under Basketball
An NBA source close to the situation informed your friendly neighborhood columnist this week that the Minnesota Timberwolves have eyes for Memphis Grizzlies swingman Rudy Gay. After turning down a contract extension that was reportedly worth $10 million a year from Memphis in early November, Gay is set to become a restricted free agent this summer.
The Wolves are in need of an impact wing player and believe Gay could be that guy. Minnesota is watching closely how he performs this season. The source indicated that the one concern the Wolves have with regard to Gay is whether or not he will develop that “killer instinct” late in ballgames.
The source also expressed surprise that Gay turned down the extension Memphis offered him saying: “I think he’s going to regret that. I don’t see how he gets more than that on the open market next summer.”
There’s always a possibility that Memphis looks to deal Gay this season. However, considering the Grizzlies have the right to match any offer Gay receives next summer keeping him seems like the more likely option provided a team doesn’t knock Memphis’ socks off with an offer before February’s trade deadline. Keeping Gay would also provide Memphis with the option of consummating a sign and trade deal next summer.
