Iverson Receives Offers
Memphis confirmed that Grizzlies did make Allen Iverson an offer. Grizzlies General Manager, Chris Wallace told ESPN.com that the heated negotiations between the sides have reached the point where Grizzlies have made a formal offer.
Iverson is believed to be one of the most high profile, unrestricted free agents that is still in the market. He is a 10-time All-Star whom Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley sees as a strong gate attraction. He played in only 57 games between Denver and Detroit last season because of his injury and averaged a 17.5 points per game.
There were reports before that he was leaning towards reuniting his coach, Larry Brown, with the Charlotte Bobcats. But the Bobcats are for sale and is under severe financial difficulties. So most likely, Iverson is not going this way.
A stronger suitor that is luring Iverson is Miami Heat. However, their offer may not be sweet enough to get Iverson’s heart. Miami Heat is already more than $3 million into luxury tax territory and has not been willing thus far to make Iverson a substantial financial offer. So who could possibly win Iverson’s services?
Memphis on the other hand, is said to easilty outbid Charlotte and Miami. Memphis is approximately $3.5 million under the salary cap for the 2009-10 season. Wallace would not say how much is the offer or when Iverson would possibly start, that is if he takes the offer.
Wallace said that they will probably add another guard at some point but there’s no rush. One thing is for sure though, there’s going to be just another interesting season for basketball.