Evans out for Grizzlies as trade speculation swirls

Memphis Grizzlies guard Tyreke Evans, right, drives against Phoenix Suns forward Josh Jackson in the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 29, 2018, in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brandon Dill)

DETROIT — Tyreke Evans is not with the Memphis Grizzlies for Thursday night’s game at Detroit as trade speculation swirls around the veteran guard.

The Grizzlies listed Evans as having an illness, but interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff confirmed before the game that the team isn’t likely to play him before the Feb. 8 trade deadline.

Bickerstaff says: “They’re involved in conversations, and when those conversations are resolved, a final decision will be made.”

Evans, who also missed Wednesday night’s game at Indiana, is averaging 19.5 points, five assists and five rebounds this season. The Grizzlies were 18-32 heading into Thursday’s game.