Grizzlies GM to teams chasing Marc Gasol: 'Find another player'

Despite his status as an impending unrestricted free agent, Marc Gasol isn't going anywhere.

That was the message from general manager Chris Wallace on the weekend when he spoke to Celtics Beat. The former Boston Celtics executive was adamant that all of the speculation about Gasol's status is unfounded, because the Grizzlies don't plan to let him go.

"We have every intention of re-signing Marc Gasol," Wallace said. "So those teams are going to have to find another player."

A handful of teams have already been linked to Gasol, including the San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers. Those may be desirable locations for a player, but the Grizzlies will be able to offer Gasol more money than any other team, as they'll hold his Bird rights.

Gasol has also spent his entire career in Memphis. Acquired from the Lakers in the Pau Gasol trade of 2008, Marc has played 450 games with the Grizzlies over seven seasons, emerging as an All-Star and franchise cornerstone.

The 2013 Defensive Player of the Year has developed into one of the league's best interior defenders, and his scoring touch and deft passing would be a great fit in any offense. He's set to earn a raise on the $15.8 million he's making this season and could be the recipient of a maximum contract if he finishes out the year healthy.

Still just 29 years old, Gasol is averaging a career-best 19.9 points through 14 games, adding 8.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.5 blocks.