Rudy Gay's Return This Season In Doubt

After learning that Rudy Gay would miss the next 4-5 weeks due to a dislocated shoulder, many fantasy owners already considered dropping him. Considering that heading into the All-Star break, Gay has returned top-10 value on the season, the decision to cut him has weighed heavily on his owners.

Now, however, reports are swirling that Gay may not return to the basketball court this season. It makes sense. If Memphis is going to bring him back in late-March, considering where they stand in the playoff hunt is really the deciding factor. Would it really be worth having him suit up in meaning less games? I don't see why the Grizzlies would even consider it.

Gay has been, as I noted earlier, a top-10 value player this season, but unless you're in a keeper or dynasty league, now might be the time to drop him. In one of my leagues this morning, an owner dropped Gay and picked up Tony Allen. That move makes perfect sense right now.

Allen, as I mentioned many times before, is a perfect add for owners looking to play catch up in steals. Over his last five games, Allen has picked 12 steals, plus added five total blocks and scored in double-figures in each of those contests. You add Allen for his defense and limited scoring abilities, but don't expect him to help in threes, assists and rebounds.

Add Sam Young into the mix, since he's been playing well as the starting two-guard for the Grizzlies. Young is a better scorer and rebounder than Allen, plus he can hit the occasional 3-pointer, but he's not the defender that Allen is. Young can pick a steal or two here and there, but not to the level that Allen can.

Also, we need to start adding O.J. Mayo into the mix. Mayo returned to the court this week, playing just six minutes against the 76ers. But he, as we know, is the true talent among this trio. His return to playing 20-plus minutes could be key in the Grizzlies really trying to make a playoff run. Keep an eye on Mayo.