The Grizzlies have officially released guard Andrew Harrison, the team announced today in a press release. Harrison will become an unrestricted free agent on Saturday, assuming he goes unclaimed on waivers.
Harrison, who turned 24 on Sunday, had been the primary backup for Mike Conley at the point in Memphis over the last couple years. In his first two NBA seasons, the former Kentucky standout recorded 7.5 PPG, 2.9 APG, and 2.1 RPG in 128 games (21.9 MPG).
However, Harrison had fallen out of the rotation this season, with Conley healthy and free agent addition Shelvin Mack taking over the backup role. The Grizzlies also have rookie Jevon Carter at the point, with Garrett Temple capable of handling the ball as well, creating a good deal of depth even without Harrison in the mix.
Because Harrison’s contract was non-guaranteed, Memphis won’t be on the hook for his full $1,544,951 cap charge. Instead, the cap hit will be just $200K, per ESPN’s Bobby Marks (Twitter link). The Grizzlies, who aren’t far from the luxury tax line, will save a little money and maintain some roster flexibility if they opt not to replace Harrison on their roster right away.
Bad decision. Averaged 9.5 points last year. If this was 2016 free agency he would he getting paid 6-8 million per year
PHX should be on the phone. He’s at least worth a look.
If someone claims him does his contract become guaranteed?
Not until January.