Chandler Parsons to return to Memphis Grizzlies

Forward Chandler Parsons will return to the Memphis Grizzlies after the team did not move him at the NBA trading deadline.

Parsons told ESPN on Saturday that the two sides have agreed he will join the team after the All-Star break and get back into the lineup.

"I've been eager to get back on the court since I was cleared to play on Dec. 21," Parsons said. "I'm glad the Grizzlies are giving me that opportunity. I've been training hard in Los Angeles for the last month and hoping I'd get a chance to play again this season. I'm ready to get back to Memphis and help my team win any way I can."

In January, the two sides agreed to part ways indefinitely and come to a decision about Parsons' future, which would include seeking a trade of the eighth-year veteran.

The Grizzlies signed Parsons to a four-year, $94 million maximum contract in 2016 and still owe him the remainder of this season's salary, plus $25.1 million in 2019-20.

Parsons, 30, hasn't played for the Grizzlies since the third game of this season. He left the lineup because of knee soreness.

According to an ESPN report from January, the final straw between Parsons and Memphis came when the team mentioned the possibility of assigning him to its G League affiliate. General manager Chris Wallace wanted Parsons to join the Memphis Hustle for several games before putting Parsons back on the Grizzlies' active roster.

G League stints are often treated as rehab assignments for veteran players, but while Parsons was willing to play with the G League affiliate, he reportedly wanted a clearer plan and timetable for his return to the active roster.

Parsons, who averaged 5.7 points and 1.3 rebounds before his injury, has been cleared to play since Dec. 21.

For his career, Parsons has averaged 13 points and 4.6 rebounds. He also has played for Dallas and Houston. He has played just 73 games with the Grizzlies. —Field Level Media/Reuters