NBA free agency officially opened at midnight and the Grizzlies struck quickly, agreeing to a contract with former Toronto Raptors guard Jerry Bayless, as reported by ESPN.com’s Marc Stein.
The Grizzlies have reportedly signed Bayless to a two-year deal, with the second season a player option. Based on the mini-mid-level exception the Grizzlies had to use, the starting salary would be $3.1 million.
I had identified Bayless in my last post as the best available free agent that fit the Grizzlies needs and price range, so I think this was a good get for the Grizzlies.
As much as everyone focuses on outside shooting, adding more ballhandlers — or, at least, proven ballhandlers — to the backcourt, not only at the point but at the two-guard as well, was perhaps an even greater need. And as a strong, 6’3” combo guard with an improving three-point shot, Bayless has a chance to check all of those boxes.
