http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/20 ... t-of-talk/
Commercial Appeal wrote:Conley at heart of trade talk; Griz don't want guard included in draft deals
By Ronald Tillery (Contact), Memphis Commercial Appeal
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
The Grizzlies are working to acquire the No. 2 overall pick Thursday in the NBA draft, but they aren't willing to sacrifice point guard Mike Conley.
The inclination to keep Conley, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2007 draft, was characterized Tuesday by those familiar with the discussions as an organizational decision -- meaning ownership, management and the coaching staff are opposed to a deal that would send Conley as part of a package to the Miami Heat in exchange for the presumed right to draft forward Michael Beasley of Kansas State at No. 2.
Guard Mike Conley has been mentioned in a number of trade rumors, but many within the organization say they want to keep the young guard in Memphis.
Griz general manager Chris Wallace couldn't be reached for comment Tuesday but has said the franchise is exploring all options as it prepares to make the fifth pick.
The first pick is expected to be University of Memphis guard Derrick Rose by Chicago.
The Griz and Heat have talked for weeks about possibly swapping first-round picks. Reportedly, Miami originally sought a deal that would give them Mike Miller, Kyle Lowry and the Grizzlies' No. 5 pick. The Griz countered with a variation of that trade, only they prefer to substitute the No. 5 selection with their No. 28 pick.
Both proposed trades included other players from both teams to make the deals work under the league's salary cap.
Miami has expressed interest in moving Mark Blount and Marcus Banks. Memphis' longstanding preference has been to unload Brian Cardinal and the remainder of his contract.
According to ESPN.com, the Heat's latest proposal wanted the Griz to send Miller, Conley and the No. 5 pick for the No. 2 pick and Daequan Cook. It's a high price tag, according to sources who acknowledge the team's willingness to part with Miller and Lowry.
Another report has the Grizzlies sending Conley, Miller and the No. 5 pick to Miami for Udonis Haslim, Cook and the No. 2 selection.
Miller, a veteran whom the Griz may have to consider negotiating a contract extension, can be used as an asset to help the team advance its youth movement. Lowry is considered expendable given the Grizzlies' depth at point guard.
Conley is a player the franchise is counting on to develop alongside Rudy Gay on a team starved for talent. He has to develop a consistent outside shot, but the assertiveness he displayed toward the end of his rookie season provided reason for optimism.
Conley began to improve his effectiveness in pick-and-roll situations and finish stronger at the rim. His quickness and athleticism are considered obvious tools for helping the Griz improve on defense.
It's possible the Grizzlies will explore several different avenues if there is a roadblock with Miami.
One report has the Grizzlies sending the No. 5 pick and Brian Cardinal to the New York Knicks for David Lee and other considerations. Another is the Griz sending the 28th pick along with Lowry to Denver in exchange for the No. 20 pick and possibly forward Linas Kleiza. The deal would give the Griz an earlier shot at drafting Western Kentucky guard Courtney Lee, who was impressive in his Memphis workout.
