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Guard Tyreke Evans (12) spent a season with the Grizzlies. (Photo: Brandon Dill, AP)

Tyreke Evans' return to Memphis was short-lived. The guard would have agreed to a one – year deal with the Indiana Pacers for $ 12 million.

After being injured in consecutive seasons, Evans signed a one – year deal with the Grizzlies for $ 3.29 million. 2017. He responded with his best season since his 2010 campaign which earned him the rookie title of the year.

Evans, who played college ball with the Memphis Tigers, averaged 19.4 points, 5.2 assists, 5.1 rebounds and shot 39.9 percent of the range of 3 points. While the Grizzlies were fighting for wins, the 6-foot-6 guard drew the league's attention.

It was a surprise when Memphis did not move Evans to the trading deadline. In addition, he added to the pressure of bringing him back this off season to avoid leaving with nothing.

Before signing with Indiana, Evans drew the attention of the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and Oklahoma City Thunder. His story with injuries did not negate the appeal of his mix of scoring, ball handling and dispensing ability.

Memphis could offer Evans only up to the mid-level exception of $ 8.64 million. Unfortunately for Grind City, losing it does not give it extra ceiling space.

The high salaries of Marc Gasol, Mike Conley and Chandler Parsons put the Grizzlies comfortably above the $ 101.8 million salary cap. However, they were still able to sign the 2018 Jaren Jackson Jr. first-round contract for a multi-year contract and agreed with Omri Casspi for a one-year contract on Sunday.

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Memphis Grizzlies draft pick Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jevon Carter throw the first shots at the Redbirds on June 22, 2018.
Abigail Warren, Commercial Appeal

This summer, the Grizzlies will be limited to using their mid-level exception or signing minimum contracts unless they do not make a movement. They could either ignite trade discussions in an attempt to unload Parsons or choose to enter the 2018-19 season with much of the same intact core.

Memphis already has 14 players in his lineup and the last full-time spot will go to Jevon Carter, No. 32, once he has signed his rookie contract. The Grizzlies will also have a couple of two-way contracts to use, allowing players to dress up as well for the Memphis Hustle.