The Memphis Grizzlies have extended a qualifying offer to fourth-year forward Santi Aldama, which would make him a restricted free agency this summer. The offer is for one year and $5.94 million.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, an NBA insider, broke the news that Memphis can now match any free agent contract offer that Aldama receives.
During his breakout 2024–25 season, the 24-year-old shot 48.3% from the field and 36.8% from beyond the arc, averaging career-highs in numerous categories (12.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game).
As a dependable frontcourt option and contributor on both ends of the court, Aldama averaged 25.5 minutes per game and started 16 games for Memphis. In four first-round games against the Oklahoma City Thunder, he maintained his productivity and averaged 14.0 points per game in the playoffs. A number of teams with cap exceptions are taking notice of Aldama, who was drafted thirty-first overall in 2021, because of his versatility and because he has grown into a rotational contributor on a playoff squad.
The Detroit Pistons are reportedly in the mix of teams looking to sign Aldama with the help of the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception, which is estimated to be worth around $14.1 million per year, according to Zach Lowe. Lowe elaborated by saying, “that’s the scuttlebutt” about Aldama’s market, demonstrating how numerous teams view him as a top target for free agency.
After finishing 44–38 and making the playoffs for the first time since 2019, the Red Wings are in need of a third frontcourt player to complement Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart. After losing in six games to the New York Knicks in the first round, the Pistons will spend the offseason bolstering their depth at forward.
Because Aldama has Bird rights, the Grizzlies can pay more than the salary ceiling to keep him, but they’ll have to shell out a hefty sum to meet the demand.
Memphis finished the 2024–25 season with a record of 48–34, although they were eliminated in the first round by Oklahoma City.
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