Owner says Grizzlies now built for playoff run

Zach Randolph and the Grizzlies sit fourth in the Western Conference.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) - Grizzlies owner Robert Pera says the team's recent moves, including the trade of leading scorer Rudy Gay, have Memphis set up for a good run in the playoffs.

Pera held his first news conference Tuesday in Memphis since his introduction as the team's chairman before the home opener in November. He addressed topics ranging from finances to the team's roster.

He says the moves were more about putting a good team on the floor than making money. But he defended the Grizzlies' economic approach, saying spending lots of money doesn't always bring success.

Pera and CEO Jason Levien say they never had any serious discussions about trading All-Star forward Zach Randolph.

The Grizzlies are fourth in the Western Conference.

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