The Grizzlies have three of their core players, Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph and Mike Conley, entering contract seasons.

"My contract status doesn't make a difference," Gasol said. "I can assure you that all I'm going to try to do is make my teammates better and win."

Under rules of the NBA's collective bargaining agreement, Gasol isn't eligible to negotiate an extension this season. Gasol's deal expires June 30, 2011, when he becomes a restricted free agent.

"Marc is someone we put a high importance on in terms of what he means to our team," Wallace said. "I also think the fans are enamored with Marc. He showed last year he has the potential of being one of the top centers in the NBA. He's got a unique combination of skill, high basketball IQ and toughness. He has leadership potential not with just his words but with his deeds. He's one of our top players who helps set the tone on the floor with his competitiveness."