Gilbert Arenas: Memphis Grizzlies Sign Former Star to 1-Year Deal
Former All-Star guard Gilber Arenas is officially member of the Memphis Grizzlies. Arenas was a free agent and has yet to play this season. The Orlando Magic used the NBA's amnesty clause to waive him prior to the season.
UPDATE: Tuesday, March 20 at 1:55 p.m. EST
TNT's David Aldridge reports that the Grizzlies and Arenas have indeed agreed to terms on a one-year deal.
"Gilbert Arenas officially signed by Grizzlies for one year minimum deal...
— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) March 20, 2012"
Ronald Tillery of Go Grizzlies first reported that this deal was all but done:
"Free agent guard Gilbert Arenas worked out for the Grizzlies this morning and the team is preparing to sign him to a deal for the rest of this season, according to sources close to the process.
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Arenas has generated little interest this year, but did work out for the Los Angeles Lakers in February. However, he has been reportedly working hard to get into shape and underwent the same platelet-rich plasma injections in his knee that Kobe Bryant received.
His hard work is apparently paying off. Arenas was said to be in good shape during his workout for the Grizzlies. Tillery offered some insight into this subject and what needs to be done before he is officially a member of the Griz:
"Arenas appeared slender and shot the ball well during the workout. He is scheduled to take a physical this afternoon. All that would remain is for Arenas to pass the physical and agree to a prorated veteran’s minimum contract requiring the Griz to pay about $300,000.
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The Grizzlies found themselves in need of Arenas' services because rookies Jeremy Pargo and Josh Selby have not proved themselves to be capable backups for starter Mike Conley.
If Arenas can return anywhere close to the player that has averaged averaged 21.2 points and 5.4 assists in 10 NBA seasons, this will be a spectacular signing. If not, they can simply cut their losses and release him.
