FRANCIS LEAVES HOUSTON AGAIN
The Memphis Grizzlies acquired guard Steve Francis, a 2009 second-round pick and cash from the Houston Rockets in exchange for a conditional 2011 second-round pick.
What does it give the Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies finally landed their man, nearly a decade after he refused to play for the franchise (then in Vancouver) after the 1999 NBA Draft. Memphis has struggled to find much consistency at the point position this season with youngsters Kyle Lowry and Mike Conley running the show, and the team has few established veteran star leaders. At 31 years old Francis is not over the hill by conventional NBA standards, so the Grizz are obviously hoping he can turn back the clock. But at the very least they get an upgraded draft pick, and the price-tag isn't terribly high in terms of salary.
What does it give the Houston Rockets
Francis hasn't played this season and at the age of 31 it's debatable how much he might have given an already-stacked veteran Houston backcourt off the bench. By moving him the Rockets get rid of his $2.634 Million salary, which also gets the team under the NBA's luxury tax threshold. That should help them sign a less expensive player (and in an area of greater need) which could be critical for the veteran Rockets down the stretch and in the playoffs.
Fantasy impact
Player focus
Houston Rockets
a conditional second-round draft pick in 2011
