The Grizzlies are in the midst of "serious negotiations" with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to help coach their centers.

Abdul-Jabbar visited the Grizzlies in late October and the two sides are looking to work out an agreement.

"It's a matter of how much time Kareem will give to us," owner Michael Heisley told the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

"We're trying to come to an understanding of how Kareem will work. I want to make sure we're getting somebody who will give attention to these kids and help them. He's got a lot of commitments."

The Hall of Famer is under contract with the Lakers, but the defending champions gave the Grizzlies permission to speak with him.