Here Comes Zach Randolph, Memphis

The local paper preps Grizzlies fans for the Z-Bo Experience: “The Grizzlies, who need low-post scoring, are banking on Randolph despite mounting evidence that his All-Star caliber numbers — averages of 20.7 points and 10.2 rebounds over his last three seasons — are a smokescreen for his considerable baggage, on and off the court. There was a celebratory atmosphere among a large chunk of the Clippers’ fan base when the team struck its deal with Memphis. The franchise itself appeared to want Randolph, 28, nowhere near Blake Griffin, the top overall pick in last month’s NBA Draft and the Clippers’ latest potential savior. So Randolph was, in short order, shipped two times zones away — for Quentin Richardson, an oft-injured role player nearing the sunset of his career. This is the third time Randolph has been traded, and there is an unsettling trend at work. The three teams that have dealt him have gotten little in return — besides Randolph’s absence, which might have been the point.”