http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2008/...lease-or-trade/ BOSTON — Grizzlies veteran point guard Damon Stoudamire will seek a trade or contract buyout, his agent said Thursday. Stoudamire was removed from the starting lineup in favor of first-round draft pick Mike Conley. Stoudamire was on the inactive list for the Grizzlies' victory Wednesday over Indiana. Aaron Goodwin, an experienced NBA agent with a star-studded client list, called the decision to relegate Stoudamire to an insurance player at the point unacceptable and disrespectful. A 13-year veteran, Stoudamire started in 29 games for the 9-22 Grizzlies. He averaged 7.3 points on 39-percent shooting and 3.9 assists in 20.5 minutes. Head coach Marc Iavaroni, however, prefers to commit to a youth movement at the point with Conley starting and second-year player, Kyle Lowry, coming off the bench. Conley will make his second NBA start tonight when the Griz play the Boston Celtics. “For the Grizzlies to demote Damon because of his age and because of the team’s record is unacceptable,” Goodwin said. “They’re going to have to do right by Damon — move to get him out of there or restructure his contract so he can be bought out. Mr. Heisley is a good, compassionate man. But we’re not going to sit back and watch Damon’s career rot.” Goodwin referred to Griz owner Michael Heisley, who said the team will try within reason to accommodate Stoudamire. Heisley, though, cautioned that the team will consider a lot more than Stoudamire’s personal desire if something is done. “I have deep affection for Damon Stoudamire,” Heisley said. “I was invited to and went to his wedding in Hawaii. He’s been a stand-up guy. We’re not going to treat Damon in a cavalier manner. “If the opportunity presents itself, I’d love to see Damon play for a championship team. But that means we have to make a trade and somebody has to want him. We all think the world of Damon. We want to do what’s in his best interest as long as it’s in the best interest of the Grizzlies.” Stoudamire is under contract through the 2008-09 season. He is scheduled to earn $4.65 million in the final season of a four-year deal he signed in 2005. Stoudamire’s contract is also laden with language that determines his salary for 2008-09 based on the minutes he averages this season.
