NBA Trade Rumors: Memphis Grizzlies Smart to Take O.J. Mayo off Trade Block

Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard O.J. Mayo has been at the center of trade rumors for, oh, about a year now, but he has continued to play through it.

For the first time in a long time, he can now play distraction-free. 

According to the Memphis-Commerical Appeal, the Grizz are no longer shopping everyone's favorite condiment, Mayo. 

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Truth is, Griz management isn't seriously thinking of dealing Mayo nor is his possible, restricted free-agent status this summer a major concern. Mayo likely will remain with the Griz this season because of his productivity and the Grizzlies' ability to control his future with the right of first refusal on contract offers.

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That's the smartest move Memphis has made since trading a pile of trash (Quentin Richardson) for Zach Randolph. 

Why?

Because O.J. Mayo has talent but no value. 

Now that the former USC star has accepted his role as the instant-offense, energy type of player, he is thriving. In his last five games, he's averaging 16 points and over two three-pointers per game.

Head coach Lionel Hollins has loosened the reins on Mayo, and it's working.

Mayo is turning himself into Memphis' Jamal Crawford, and that's a commodity most teams don't have the benefit of having. 

Yet, the perception of Mayo is far from that.

He's seen as a player with a negative attitude. Someone who is unwilling to accept a bench role and someone who doesn't put in the necessary effort. He is looked at as a potential team cancer, and no one wants to take a risk on someone like that.

And that's why the Grizzlies were getting offers such as Anthony Morrow or Jordan Farmar for Mayo. Those are similar type of players, but don't even come close in possessing the offensive skill set O.J has. 

So why, in any scenario, would the Grizz accept low-ball trade offers that stem from negative perceptions, which Mayo is slowly turning around? It just doesn't make sense. 

What's more, taking away these trade distractions should further help Mayo improve his game.

He's playing the basketball of his career right now and no one outside of Memphis believes in him or will give up any value for him.

Yeah, I'd say it's a smart move to hold on.