Memphis Grizzlies: Marc Gasol’s impressive play at 33 and trade implications
By Aymin Bakr
Despite approaching the age of gradual NBA decline, Marc Gasol is as productive as ever for the Memphis Grizzlies. While he’s a fan favorite and will always be a Grizzly at heart, now may be the best time to look for a trade for the betterment of the franchise’s future.
Marc Gasol is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable faces in the relatively short history of the Memphis Grizzlies. At 33 years old going on 34 in January, Gasol — much like his brother Pau Gasol at the same age — is still playing an extremely productive brand of basketball on both ends of the floor and has played a pivotal role in the team’s recent success.
Although he lacks athleticism, the 7’1″ big man has been able to impact both ends of the floor at an All-Star caliber level for multiple years now and was crucial in the franchise’s success over the past decade.
As a center who can stretch the floor, rebound the basketball, protect the paint and even playmake fairly consistently, he’s a commodity in the modern NBA. However, age proves time and time again to strip formerly elite players of their impact in the league at some point in time.
At almost 34 years old, Gasol is playing considerably well, but the Grizzlies must look to get some value for him if they want to be a competitive team in the future, especially considering the fact that they chose Jaren Jackson Jr. in the draft to fill in at the big man slot.