Grizzlies Owner, Who Has a Sterling Record in Such Matters, Takes Control of Memphis Draft

Good morning, Grizzlies fans. How about some awesome news to go with your Malt 'o Meal? The Memphis Commercial-Appeal's Ron Tillery reports, you decide:

[Owner Michael] Heisley made it clear that he will take a fresh approach to the NBA Draft, which unfolds tonight in New York with the Griz owning the fifth and 28th picks. The Chicago-based billionaire insists that he'll have final say on all decisions -- so point the finger at him once the Grizzlies emerge from their war room. Heisley didn't exercise such command over the past eight years of his ownership. [...]

"For the first time, I'm having major input," Heisley said. "That doesn't mean I don't think much of [GM] Chris [Wallace] or any of my basketball people. It just means that like a lot of owners, I reserve the right to approve or not approve any decisions.

Heisley reportedly called for the cost-cutting, quasi-disastrous Pau Gasol trade in February, though some oscillation on who deserved "credit" came after the season ended and the franchise had endured months and months of jokes. Some are starting to call the Gasol deal a fair one, given Memphis' aims. You won't be able to convince me they couldn't get more talent back, which is an absolute necessity when a bleak franchise like Memphis gives up its top asset. (Ask Atlanta, circa 2000-2007.)

Of course, Heisley can't win. If Memphis trades down for extra assets, he's a cheapskate who doesn't want to pay for quality. If he trades for a big star, there's the potential for failure (present with any move for any team), which would lead to resentment toward his interference. (Ask Yankees fans.) Yes folks, it's a tough hand being Michael Heisley. Very tough.